Jimmy Wayne Starts ‘Halfway’ Trek

Jimmy Wayne has kicked off the New Year on his Meet Me Halfway walk, as he hit the pavement on New Year's morning on a nearly 1700 mile journey from Nashville to Phoenix, Ariz. ... all on foot. At least he'll be more than prepared for the cold weather over the next couple of months. He has secured a sponsorship from Marmot for clothing and supplies. Jimmy tells The Boot, "They've provided me with the attire that I'll need to withstand the cold temperature, sleeping bag, tent, etc."

For those who are worried about the singer making the solo trip on foot, he says not to worry. "I, obviously, have the means to pick up the phone and call if I get stranded or if something happens, if I'm in danger. And I'll have money, unlike these kids. I can stop by and buy food. I'm not gonna be homeless ... I'm gonna sleep outside, but I'm not gonna go hungry."

Jimmy decided to simulate being homeless for the walk to not only raise awareness of the plight of homeless teens and children, but also to raise funds for organizations that benefit homeless and at-risk youths, such as HomeBase Youth Services, an Arizona-based charity that assists adults ages 18 to 21, who are leaving the foster care system and have nowhere to go except for homeless shelters.

Jimmy, who was at times homeless as a child, hopes to reach Phoenix by the end of February. After leaving Music City, Jimmy started his trek across the country along Interstate 40.