Man walking from Sioux Lookout to Fort McMurray gets new pair of shoes in Winnipeg

Last week Stanley Barkman left from Sioux Lookout heading west on foot, and over the next couple of weeks he is walking to Fort McMurray, Alta. to fundraise for the city's fire victims.The walk is resonating with people, including those impacted by the fire, who stop Barkman along the highway.

"I just want to help out as much as possible - just do what I can," said Barkman.

"I hope it helps a family or two, or a high school, or a business."

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Nine days into the walk,Barkman has already completed 450 kilometers, and arrived in Winnipeg Monday. His cousin, David Barkman, joined the walk from Dryden, Ont. and will continue with him until the end.

Tuesdayafternoon Barkman met with approximately 20supporters at the Winnipeg Indian and Mtis Friendship Centre. In addition to receivingdonations for the walk, Barkman also received a new pair of runners, which will be put to good use. To date, Barkmansays he has worn out five pairs of shoes.

Barkman is a seasoned walker, having done other fundraising walks in the past, but this one is by far the longest to date. Over the last week he has walked through rain and snow, but that won't dampen his spirits.

"You just take it one step at a time, no matter the weather, we just try to keep at it," said Barkman.

Along the walk, Barkman has met people directly impacted by the fire, who stop him on the highway to tell their stories.

"Some people lost their homes, some people lost a lot of things, it gets emotional when I hear [that]," said Barkman.

"I'm proud to help out, but hearing the things that they lose, it just inspires me more and I try to get closer and closer every day."

Barkman's father, Robert, helped organize the walk, but initially thought it was a bad idea.

"I told him he was crazy [but] it's an honour to see my son do something for people he doesn't even know," said Robert.

"To be honest with you, it's overwhelming the amount of support of people coming out even on the road."

Barkman still has over 1,600 kms to walk, but he isn't slowing down. As his father says, Barkman is taking "one step at a time, one day at a time, getting closer - that's his motivation."