Why You Should Be Donating Socks
The importance of socks for general health and why there is such a demand.
For most of us, the idea of donating used socks to a charity or shelter is odd, no matter how clean they are. There are a lot of charity shops that mainly focus on tops and trousers as that is where they get the most amount of money, but having worked in one myself, there was always something people would ask for if they were struggling financially.
The humble sock.
Here are a few reasons why you should try donating some socks.
They Absorb Moisture, Oil, and Dirt Around Your Feet
Socks should be a staple in anybody’s routine, but we can all see why it would be particularly beneficial for the less fortunate. For people living in unclean or wet conditions, new socks can help to keep their feet cozy and dry. This also helps to prevent unwanted diseases such as Athlete’s foot and Trench's foot.
For the Homeless, Socks Need to be Changed as Much as Underwear
When searching for new clothes, those less fortunate need to pick and prioritize certain articles over others. Due to the way socks absorb unwanted moisture, they need to ideally be changed just as much as underwear, whereas things like jackets can be kept for a longer period of time.
They Prevent Damage to the Feet
Many homeless people will spend the majority of their day on their feet, and many young children will want socks to wear to school along with their new shoes. Socks can protect the skin in the same way moleskin plasters do — by separating the skin of your foot from your shoes so friction isn’t created.
They Help Protect Your Mental Health
For many, having holes and dirty clothes can make feelings of self-hatred and shame a common feeling. When people have access to clean clothes, they can focus on more important things like bettering their mental health and seeking help.
