Tag Archives: homeless

Pull Up Your Socks and Donate: How One Innovative Company is Changing How We Give

If you’re anything like me, social media and its targeted approach to advertising fascinate you. It seems the Internet understands us better than we do ourselves, and whenever something we’ve been searching for pops up in a newsfeed, we feel oddly appreciative. It’s almost like having a friend that volunteers their time without being asked – but what if you weren’t looking for anything? What if they just KNEW what you wanted without scraping your hard drive for data? That’s what happened to me the other day.

I was sitting in my office, scanning updates on Facebook when an announcement caught my eye. It was a sponsored post from Bombas, a New York-based sock company that began with an INDIEGOGO campaign. They were promoting a variety of neon-colored socks that offered the one and only feature I had been (secretly) hoping to find: seamless toes—a dream come true. I could almost taste the tears of joy rolling down my daughter’s cheeks when I told her about them. For years, we have argued over uneven stitching and discomfort. And while she whined and moaned because they were either too tight or not thick enough, I continued my search for a more suitable replacement while turning the old ones inside-out. Perhaps this was my lucky day.

bombas socks neon orange
Image courtesy of Bombas

When I clicked on the link to Bombas, I was elated. Right there, on the front page of their website, was proof of their integrity. Written in all caps was something I have never considered: SOCKS ARE THE MOST REQUESTED ITEMS IN HOMELESS SHELTERS. Not only was this company manufacturing high-quality footwear for men, women and children; they were donating a new pair of socks to a homeless shelter for each set purchased online; what a great way to give back to society—SOLD!

bombas socks couple
Image courtesy of Bombas

When the package arrived in the mail, it came with a thoughtful note and a reminder that my purchase had provided socks to four homeless children in need. It seemed like a high price to pay for giving back ($8-12 per pair), but my daughter has never been happier and our lifelong debate over tension and elasticity has ended in a peace-loving way. According to her, these are the most comfortable socks you (and a displaced stranger) will ever own. They stay up, aren’t too tight and never slip down. In other words, they are a perfect fit for anyone, and each unique style comes in a wide array of colors. Who knew that a single pair of socks could make such a difference in a person’s life? Imagine what it can do for the homeless.

bombas womens socks calf
Image courtesy of Bombas

If you have a child with sensitive feet or tenderness issues of your own, I highly recommend giving Bombas a try. They are an honest company, committed to loyalty, with a happiness seal of approval. And, in a world of “what’s in it for me,” it is nice to see someone pay it forward for a change.

Homeless Helper Bags: A DIY Way to Give Back

Many of us live in cities stricken with poverty and homelessness, and the brisk winter season often compels us to help where we can. The season is also one of the busiest times of year. From gift shopping to flight delays, it can be difficult to give back to the degree we feel is necessary. Homeless helper kits offer solutions for the charitable who may be too time-strapped for traditional philanthropy. The kits — bags comprised of toiletries, protein-packed food and other essentials to hand out at a moment’s notice — can make a small difference to those with few luxuries. They make for a meaningful holiday family activity, teaching kids the value of giving. Whether you are keeping the kits in your backseat to hand out at stoplights, or donate to your local shelter, they are a simple opportunity to do your part.

Homeless Helper bag contents

Toiletries

Many assume homelessness means no access to running water or opportunity for basic hygiene. In fact, 65 percent of homeless Americans live in emergency shelters or transitional housing programs, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, while 35 percent live in unsheltered locations. Affording people the dignity of self-care can act as a powerful personal motivator. A toothbrush, some toothpaste, body wash and moist towelettes may go further than you know.

Food

In 2014, 48.1 million Americans lived in food insecure households, including 15.3 million children, according to the USDA. Millions of families nationwide are faced with limited availability to a nutritional diet. Many of the individuals who need the kits do not have access to stoves, can openers and microwaves, so food and snacks high in protein and other vitamins in the bags is crucial. Peanut butter crackers, fruit snacks, granola bars, dried fruit and other easily consumable foods are best.

Warmth

Especially important for those holding signs during the winter months: Gloves, socks, scarves, hand/feet warmers and ponchos. Keeping warm and dry helps prevent serious illness and sustain a slice of comfort.

Feel Good Items

Remember, you are compiling these kits for people similar to you.  It is possible to become homeless overnight, despite your best efforts. Many of us are an illness or natural disaster away from losing everything we have worked for. Consider what you would miss if you lost it all. Sometimes, petty comforts are much more in dire circumstances. Tossing in a few sweet treats, such as cookies or chocolate, reminds those down on their luck that they’re still loved and respected regardless of their circumstances.

For Women

About 40 percent of homeless Americans are women. Make sure to have a few kits concentrated on the particular needs of women. Tampons, Maxi Pads, shampoo and conditioner and travel-size hair brushes are hard to come by in shelters.

Regardless of what you give, chances are you’ll make a difference in the lives you touch. For less than $10 a bag and a few hours, you can get someone through the harshest season of the year.