The Action Team, a Carver-based organization, has completed its third sock drive.
Founder Laicey Ieronimo said they collected 4,418 pairs of socks.
“It is sometimes an overwhelming feeling, just knowing how many people these events can impact, or hopefully impact in a positive way,” said Ieronimo. “It’s not only about who we can help, but it’s about getting the communities and people involved, and giving other folks the chance to give back.”
She partners with the Joy of Socks, a Philadelphia-based organization that donates socks to homeless people around the country. They say that socks are the most-needed article of clothing, and new socks are rarely donated.
Ieronimo has collected nearly 8,000 pairs of socks since she first started. This year, more than 1,800 pairs of socks were donated from the Carver Elementary School.
“Specifically, Mrs. Jane Kent, Mrs. Kathy Steed, and Ms. Tanya Dawson from Carver Elementary School played a huge role. They got the word out in the newsletters at Carver Elementary, they had a couple of after-school groups make posters and the boxes,” said Ieronimo. “They organized silly sock days, and promoted that all on their own. It was huge to have their help.”
Plympton and Carver police officers donated to the cause, along with students at the Plymouth South High School. Ieronimo collected donations and purchased socks for people unable to drop them off.
Family members helped sort and bag the socks over a weekend, and Ieronimo will deliver them to Philadelphia later this month.
“I was very, very thankful and happy to not only surpass 3,000, but to pass it by over 1,400 pairs of socks was incredible,” said Ieronimo. “It was a good feeling knowing that it continues to grow by a significant amount. I’m sure next year is going to be even better, and I think our goal for next will be 5,000.”
More information and future events can be found at Theactionteamorganization.com.