Bombas Does It Again! 57,500 Socks Ready For Socktober 2024

Socktober is here again, and with it comes another incredible milestone in our mission to support children in foster care. This Socktober, Bombas has donated 57,500pairs of socks to deliver to foster care agencies across the country.

Since partnering with Bombas in 2019, we have delivered almost 100,000 pairs of socks annually. This year is no different – thanks to Bombas, we’re once again ready to bring warmth and coziness to kids who need it most. 

What is Socktober?

Socktober started as a response to the critical need for socks within the homeless community. 

Recognizing that socks were the most requested item yet least donated item at homeless shelters, Brad Montague began the movement in 2011 by personally handing out socks to those experiencing homelessness while wishing them “Happy Socktober!”  Videos of Brad handing out socks spread online, and soon people got involved in donating more socks nationwide. 

Since then, Socktober has evolved and now extends to other vulnerable populations like the foster care community. Foster Love has embraced the Socktober spirit every year, making sure children who often lack basic necessities receive the warmth and comfort they deserve.

This support is especially meaningful given that homelessness is a significant issue for foster youth aging out of the system, with nearly half of the homeless population made up of those who have been in foster care at one time or another.

Why are socks the most requested yet least donated item?

Simply put, it’s because people underestimate the importance of socks. Clothing donations often focus on garments like jackets and pants and other bulkier items such as blankets. This leads to a shortage of the smaller, but very essential items, like socks and underwear.

The Impact Socks Have on a Child’s Well-Being and Dignity

For children, particularly those in foster care, having warm, clean socks can greatly improve their health and comfort. Though they can be fashionable, socks are necessary for maintaining good foot health.

Keeping kids’ feet happy and healthy

Socks are a simple and powerful way to show children in foster care that they are valued, respected, and cared for.

Clean, dry socks are crucial for good foot health. They prevent blisters, athlete’s foot, and other infections, and are also barriers that protect us from injuries and accidents.

Socks also provide warmth during the colder months to keep our entire bodies warm, improve sleep, and contribute to overall comfort by adding an extra layer of comfort between feet and shoes.

Because clothing is often donated secondhand to many agencies, the opportunity to have new and unworn clothing is difficult for children in foster care. Receiving new clothing, especially socks, can boost a child’s self-esteem and well-being.

How Socktober is Making a Difference in the Foster Care Community

Socks are the #1 most requested item in homeless shelters and foster care. Considering that 1 in every 30 children in the United States is experiencing homelessness… we must support them in any way we can.

Every year, Foster Love and Bombas have teamed up (with your help!) to ship new pairs of socks across the country. This year for Socktober, Bombas has donated over 57,500 pairs! Every $3 donated helps us ship 2 of those pairs to agencies in need. 

How You Can Get Involved This Socktober

There are many impactful ways to make a difference for children this Socktober.

• • Donate to Foster Love’s Socktober campaign: Just $3 covers the cost of shipping for 2 pairs of socks, directly supporting kids in foster care. 
  • Start a fundraiser: Host a fundraiser on our site to not only support Socktober but also provide other essential items like Sweet Cases, which offer toothbrushes, blankets, and other comforting items for children in foster care. Every donation makes a difference!
  • Spread the word: Share the Socktober story and message with friends and family on social media! The more people know about the campaign, the greater the impact we can make together.
  • Organize a sock drive for foster youth: Host your own community sock drive to collect and donate new socks! This is a great way to engage your local community and directly contribute to the cause. 
  • Volunteer your time: Offer to help local organizations or agencies involved in Socktober. Many need help with sorting and distributing their donations. 

Let’s Make a Difference This Socktober!

This Socktober, Bombas plays a crucial role in addressing the basic needs of vulnerable populations, from the homeless to children in foster care. By participating in this campaign, you’re contributing to a movement that provides warmth, dignity, and comfort to those who need it most.