Thousands of pairs of socks were collected and distributed throughout Chautauqua County through NCCF’s SOCKTOBER sock drive in 2022.

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF) announces its annual SOCKTOBER sock drive will take place during the month of October. SOCKTOBER is a month-long initiative aimed at collecting warm socks for individuals and families in need. This year, the need is more significant than ever, as rising costs and increased homelessness have left many without this basic necessity.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many members of our community face the harsh reality of winter without the warmth and comfort of proper footwear. Socks are an often overlooked but critical component of staying warm and healthy during the colder months, and SOCKTOBER seeks to make a meaningful difference.

Throughout October, NCCF in collaboration with Agricultural Logistics, Cattaraugus County Bank, James Prendergast Library, and Lake Shore Savings Bank (Dunkirk, Fredonia and Westfield branches) will be accepting sock donations. New socks of all sizes and types, from cozy winter socks to athletic and everyday wear, are encouraged to help meet the diverse needs of those we aim to assist.

The SOCKTOBER partners believe that everyone deserves the dignity of warm, dry feet, and SOCKTOBER is an opportunity for our community to come together and make a tangible impact. By participating in this sock drive, you can help bring warmth and comfort to those who need it most during the challenging winter months.

How You Can Help: Donate New Socks: Drop off new socks at our designated collection points throughout Chautauqua County. Look for SOCKTOBER collection bins at the patterning businesses and organizations. Host a Sock Drive: Encourage your workplace, book club, school, or organization to host a sock drive and contribute to our goal. Make a Financial Contribution: If you prefer, you may make a financial contribution. All funds will be used to purchase additional socks for distribution. Spread the Word: Share the news about SOCKTOBER on social media using the hashtag #SOCKTOBER and encourage your friends, family, and followers to get involved.

In 2022 thousands of socks were distributed throughout Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, the Homeless Coalition, Meals on Wheels, Jamestown YWCA, Boys and Girls Club, St. Gianna Molla, St. Susan’s Center and others.

Join us in making SOCKTOBER a season of hope, compassion, and warmth. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. Let\\\\\\\’s warm hearts and toes this October! For more information, contact Eileen Ardillo at 716-366-4892 or via email at eardillo@nccfoundation.org.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested more than $20 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations. The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. As a nationally accredited community foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting the needs of its community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 716-366-4892.