Socktober Service Project is Seven Years Strong

By Student Contributor Eva Ryan ('24)

Socktober is an annual school-wide service project at SAA-SDS that was started by Elaina Fik (‘24). I recently held an interview with her to learn more about the project and spread information on what it is all about.

Q. When did you start Socktober service project?

A. I started Socktober when I was in the fourth grade, so seven years ago. It started as a Lower School project, but now the whole school, PK2-12 is involved.

Q. Why did you start the fundraiser?

A. I wanted to help support people in the community. I learned that socks are the most requested item in homeless shelters and missions. They go through about 150 pairs of socks a week. I thought Socktober would be really special because it could help so many people.

Q. Where are the socks donated to?

A. The socks are donated to the Manna House. I take them myself when the fundraiser is over. Manna House Memphis offers hospitality to homeless and poor persons in Memphis.

Q. As the name is Socktober, why is it held during October?

A. October is the perfect time of year because the weather is starting to get cold and there is a great need for socks. We will be collecting socks from October 17-24.

Q. How and where do students donate socks?

A. There will be designated baskets for each grade. ECC and Lower School baskets are located in classrooms, Junior High baskets are in religion classrooms, and Upper School baskets are in their lead sponsors’ rooms.

Q. Are any kinds of socks acceptable?

A. Preferably packs of new, adult socks-that would be great. Most of the people served by the Manna House in need of socks are adults.

Q. How many socks do you usually collect during the Socktober drive?

A. Last year we collected 2,953 pairs of socks! My goal for this year is to collect is 3,000 pairs.

Q. Thank you so much for meeting with me! Do you have anything else you want to say about Socktober?

A. Socktober is special because every year when I go back to Manna House, I see people who have gotten back on their feet and are now helping out. It is such a joy to see. The Manna House is so helpful to so many, and everyone is very appreciative. It is always a great time helping them out!

In 2018 Elaina received the Crystal Award for Youth in Philanthropy. The Crystal Awards are presented annually by the Association of Fundraising Professionals to recognize the profound impact that philanthropy has on the fabric of society.  The event seeks to honor those in our community who through their hard work and dedication, have enhanced philanthropy and our community.