Poole sock-themed charity scheme sees generous donations

A charity initiative in Poole has seen a “very generous amount” of donations to their sock-themed initiative.

Socktober, running through the whole of October, urges people to drop spare or brand-new pairs of socks in a collection bin.

The initiative’s theme was chosen because socks are one of the most requested items by homeless shelters, but one of the least donated.

The initiative is in partnership with Routes to Roots (RTR), a Christian charity that supports rough sleepers and those living in vulnerable housing or poverty across the wider Poole area.

RTR also helps people integrate into the community and provides essentials services, for example free showers.

Ben Sargent (Genesis Centre Manager at RTR), who’s role involves overseeing all operations of the day centre, spoke to Buzz News and explained how the idea came about.

“The Dolphin Centre actually approached us after seeing this campaign work elsewhere.

“It was a great opportunity to raise awareness of the positive work of RTR and engage with the community.”

With the full number of donated socks not being revealed to the charity until “mid-November”, Ben outlined how important socks are for those homeless or living in poverty.

“Donating socks is something achievable for people to give.

“Socks are highly impactful as they’re good for mental and physical health – it’s so important for those who are homeless to have dry feet”.

The donation bin can be found in the plaza near Amphitheatre, next to Finnegan the Fish in the Dolphin Centre.