Can you spare a pair? Vinnies sock drive

There are many things in life that most of us take for granted, and having warm and dry feet is one of them. However, this is a basic comfort that many people experiencing poverty and/or homelessness simply don’t enjoy.

That’s why Vinnies is asking the community if they can ‘spare a pair’ of new socks to be distributed to people in need. Socks can be dropped into any of Vinnies’ 33 shops across the state, and they will then be passed on to people accessing the organisation’s Fred’s Van meal service, and guests of the Vinnies Men’s and Women’s Crisis Centres.

Fred’s Van serves more than 40,000 meals each year in 10 locations across South Australia. People from all walks of life and circumstances are drawn to the service, and while some may be experiencing homelessness or don’t have access to kitchen facilities, the vast majority rely on the service just to help make ends meet.

Fred’s Van Coordinator Teresa Branch said the service has observed a growing number of family groups in attendance over the past few months.

‘We’re seeing more families come through the door, and hearing from them that rental costs and other expenses are putting a huge strain on the household budget. Knowing they can rely on a warm meal at least once a week just takes a bit of pressure off,’ she said.

Vinnies Crisis Centres accommodate more than 1,200 men, women and children each year, and guests often arrive with few possessions. While Vinnies is able to assist with clothing and other items, socks are often in short supply, and that’s why the organisation is calling on the community for help.

If you would like to contribute in a very practical way that makes a very real difference, drop NEW socks into any Vinnies shop in South Australia – find a shop near you at www.vinnies.org.au/Shops/SA

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Media contact:

Jo Dinnison ph 0419 940 721 or email media@svdpsa.org.au