In looking for a way I could help, I learned that SOCKS are the #1 requested item in homeless shelters. It was as if a lightbulb had gone off in my head – a simple, inexpensive way for people to do something good. I began by asking friends in the area to put donation boxes in their stores and places of business. I got large packing boxes from White Glove Moving and Storage and began posting daily on Facebook.

My goal that first year was 500 pairs of new socks. In short order I had collected over 1000 pairs. I realized there was enough to share the bounty so I split them with two additional charities. It was then I realized how much people want to do something good for others when given the chance – and a simple way to do it and the Annual Sock Drive was born.

The second year we upped the ante with more collection sites and a goal of 1000 pairs. Within weeks, we took in almost 3000 pairs of socks. And some t-shirts and baseball caps to boot. We expanded the number of charities served to 7 and made new connections in our community and beyond.

Entering our 5th year, we have collected and delivered over 23,000 pairs of new socks to the homeless, poor and less fortunate. It’s truly a testament to the quality and compassion of our community.

Barry Shapiro
Founder