For those experiencing extreme poverty and homelessness, foot health can be a prominent issue facing their wellbeing.
Health conditions, paired with the cold, wet winter conditions of Vancouver Island, can present a whole new set of problems that can be difficult to manage and treat.
The Cool Aid Society is here to help.
For the 14th year, Cool Aid Society, Congregation Emanu-El, Kia Victoria, La-Z-Boy Furniture and PVH Legwear Canada are working to provide warm socks to people experiencing poverty and homelessness in Victoria.
The campaign, which will run until November 30th, aims to provide 10,000 pairs of warm socks to homeless residents in preparation for the winter season.
Donations can be made online, by calling 250-383-1977 or at Kia Victoria.
Once gathered, the socks will be distributed through 25 organizations from Nanaimo to Victoria and Salt Spring Island.
“When I started this program, I was looking for a simple but effective way to help people in our community who are living in poverty,” said campaign organizer and Congregation Emanu-El member, Michael Bloomfield,
“You cannot underestimate the importance of a good quality pair of warm, dry socks, especially during the winter months.”
Over the past fourteen years, the annual campaign has distributed 112,500 pairs of socks worth $562,500 to thousands of residents across Vancouver Island.
Cool Aid purchases the socks from PVH Legwear Canada at a discounted price and La-Z-Boy Victoria donates the shipping costs.
This year, Kia Victoria joined the effort, matching every $5 donation at Kia Victoria up to $5,000.
“We are thrilled to be part of this campaign. Doing something tangible for those in our community who are less fortunate is part of our corporate responsibility and an important part of our company culture,” said Bethan Osterman, owner of Kia Victoria,
“It’s a small something that we know makes a big difference to the people who receive the socks.”
