06
November
2023
|
17:09 PM
America/New_York

Matthew Conti: Making every step a little more comfortable

Finding the perfect fit is part of  Matthew S. Conti, MD's  mission.

While in high school, Dr. Conti volunteered at a local hospital, where he was exposed to the problems caused by improper footwear.

This inspired him to not only become a doctor, but to start the nonprofit “Our Hearts to Your Soles,” which gives shoes, socks and exams to those in need.

“I realized there was a need to provide people who don’t have access to shoes, shoes,” Dr. Conti said. “And at school, we always provided coats and hats for the winter, but no one ever provided shoes.”

Dr. Conti quickly got to work, and with the help of donations in 2006, he was able to give out 50 new pairs of shoes to the homeless. Since then, he’s never looked back.

“People really care what they wear on their feet, and I think being able to provide someone with a new pair of shoes provides them with a lot of dignity,” Dr. Conti said.

Seventeen years later, Dr. Conti and his organization have multiplied their efforts, providing more than 50,000 pairs of shoes to those in need.

Dr. Conti sets up clinics inside pantries and shelters to provide support. As a licensed foot and ankle surgeon at HSS, he also provides free medical checkups, bringing along his colleagues and family to help out.

Read the full article at ny1.com.