When someone mentions socks this time of year, it usually conjures up images of relaxing in your warm and cozy socks and sipping cocoa by a roaring fire. But for others, the mention of socks can bring longing for the simple necessity that feels more like a luxury to them. Socks are the most requested item for the homeless population in the are, but they are sadly the least donated. Students and staff at Ross Medical Education Center in Port Huron, Michigan stepped up and worked in conjunction with The Center of Port Huron during the month of December to provide socks to those who need them most.
The Center is a collaboration of non-profit agencies sharing space to help as many people as possible, including services such as health care, recovery groups, legal aid, and an emergency food pantry. The Center works tirelessly throughout the year to provide services for the community as a whole, including the underserved and the homeless population.
Diane Slingerland, the Director of The Center, said that the number of people served has increased throughout the last several months, and it is not uncommon for them to serve upwards of 500 people per day. The Center was a dream turned reality for Diane, who felt that there was an overwhelming need for the underserved in Port Huron to receive some assistance. Diane says she likes to call The Center a “one stop solution center, rooted in the community and based on relationships.”
Established in 2016, The Center has already grown and flourished into a staple in the community. A place that serves as a true community center offering things like ceramics, book clubs, and cooking classes, but also acts as a place of refuge for those without homes to rest in safety, receive food from the emergency food pantry, or just have a conversation with someone who cares.
Ross students and staff were proud to be able to donate a large box of socks to The Center. Socks of all sizes and colors and styles were donated and are sure to be a benefit to those that need them. Donated socks, along with the care and concern of the students and staff, will hopefully not only warm their feet at The Center, but their hearts as well.
If you are interested in creating a sock drive, please consider partnering with a group in your community such as a community center or other service organization. There are many online resources to help you create a successful drive, such as, thejoyofsox.org. Also, on a wider scale, Bombas Sock Company will donate a pair of socks to the homeless for every pair of socks you buy. You can learn more about their efforts at bombas.com. Information about The Center of Port Huron; can also be found on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/centerofph/.