ABOUT

WHY SOCKS?

At our organization, we focus on providing essential items often overlooked in donations to shelters and nonprofits: socks, underwear, and feminine hygiene products. Because these must be donated new, they are among the least contributed, yet they are vital for the health and dignity of those experiencing homelessness.

Clean socks are crucial in preventing skin and foot conditions like fungal infections, blisters, callouses, and stress injuries, particularly for those who spend long hours on their feet. In colder months, socks also play a critical role in protecting against cold weather and related illnesses, such as the common cold. Homelessness not only increases vulnerability to these conditions but also weakens the immune system, making it harder to recover from illness.

By providing these essential items, we aim to support the overall wellness of both individuals and the community at large. Together, we can help improve the quality of life for those who need it most.

WHO WE ARE

We are Socks for the Sole, a student-run 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to fundraising and distributing socks and other essential yet under-donated items to people experiencing homelessness in Austin, TX. As both a nonprofit and a student organization, we offer University of Texas students the chance to engage with and understand the challenges faced by Austin's homeless population, while empowering them to make a meaningful difference.

Each semester, we organize various events focused on fundraising and community service. With the support of our predominantly student volunteers, we aim to foster a stronger connection between the UT and Austin communities.

HOW WE GOT HERE

A group of students at the University of Texas recognized a critical need in their community: homelessness. With over 6,000 people experiencing homelessness in Austin, many basic needs remain unmet. Living without reliable shelter leads to health issues most people rarely consider, especially in the COVID-19 era. While Austin has numerous resources for those experiencing homelessness, we consistently saw requests for socks and underwear from both nonprofits and individuals.

We realized we might not solve Austin’s homelessness crisis, and that’s okay. But we knew we could make a meaningful difference by providing socks—small items that have a huge impact on people's lives.