WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Hanes, a flagship brand of Hanesbrands, is holding its annual sock drive for the homeless, but this year the company is expanding its efforts.
Hanes will donate 200,000 pairs of socks to the Salvation Army as well as collect new socks at more than 100 Hanes outlet stores across the country.
According to the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, an estimated 2.5 million to 3.5 million Americans experienced homelessness last year.
One of the many impacts of homelessness is the physical toll it takes because homeless people walk an average of 10 miles per day.
Officials say having access to something as basic as a clean, dry pair of socks can literally save lives.
"The weather is getting cold. I ran yesterday and it was 35 degrees in the morning, and if you are outside and your feet get wet, you get sick and it makes it all that much harder when you are trying to put your life back together,” said Hanes Senior Manager of Brand Marketing Jamie Wallis. “So, we are absolutely excited about this program and it's a big need in the community."
Wallis says you can join in the effort. Collection bins are located at checkout counters, making it easy to donate as purchases are made.
Since Hanes launched the program, it’s donated almost 2 million pairs of socks.