‘Street’ feet, also known as trench foot, is a very serious problem for the homeless. Prolonged exposure to cold damp temperatures caused by wearing wet socks or footwear without being able to change them can be health threatening. If left untreated, open sores and blisters can lead to infection and later gangrene or even amputation.
The most devastating part of ‘Street’ feet is that this affliction is 100% preventable by getting feet warm and dry once they have become cold and wet. Air drying feet and changing socks is a simple remedy.
Sadly, the people of Oceanside without shelter from the cold and damp and adequate changes of socks and shoes are suffering (see photos below). With the lack of an Extreme Weather Shelter in Oceanside or a place to seek refuge from the cold wet weather, it is no surprise that the number of cases has quadrupled in the last 3 years.
