December 2012 THA BLOG

Legwear Industry Indeed Pulls Up Its Socks for Those in Need

By:  Sally Kay, THA President/CEO

Whether it's soldiers, super storm Sandy victims, seniors, or the Salvation Army, did you realize that socks are the number one requested donation item, particularly during this time of year?  And who hasn't seen or heard of - the recent heartwarming story of the New York City policeman spending his own money to purchase a homeless man a pair of socks and winter boots?

I'm sure you're thinking, well it's the season of giving, that's what you're supposed to do and many groups are donating products of all types for the benefit of others.  I do agree with you to some extent, but I'd be remiss if I didn't expound upon the fact that I believe the legwear industry is extraordinary in its desire to help others as well as giving back to the communities in which it resides.

Because you see, the essence of philanthropy runs deep through the heart and soul of the hosiery industry which is exemplified by a few interesting facts that I'd like to share with you.  Operation Desert Storm 1991:  the US legwear industry rallied to donate manufactured gun covers (on pantyhose machines) to keep sand out of rifles and prevent them from misfiring.  September 11, 2001:  the legwear industry donated various products - not only to those displaced by these horrific terrorist attacks, but also to relief workers who had the daunting task of search and recovery efforts.  September 2005 Hurricane Katrina:  the global legwear industry worked through our organization to donate 5 million dozen pairs of socks to those impacted by this natural disaster.  January 2010:  socks donated to those Haitians rocked by the magnitude 7 earthquake.  April 2010 BP Oil Spill in the Gulf Coast:  both sock and hosiery products donated to use in the creation of booms, which absorbed the oil from the water.

The next time you see a pair of socks and/or hosiery, I ask you to please remember:  there are more than 7 billion people on this earth, which means approximately that many pairs of feet and legs.  The next time you purchase a legwear item(s) for yourself, or as gifts for others, consider purchasing an extra for donations.  It's so easy to become caught up in the everyday challenges of life, many of which we take for granted.  While you're struggling with which socks/hosiery/tights will best accessorize your outfit to the holiday party, please think of those who may have none to wear at all.