Submitted by: Peoples Bank
Building on its 2018 Socktober campaign during which more than 7,000 pairs of socks were donated to non-profit organizations serving homeless communities in Washington, Peoples Bank has launched its 2019 campaign with a goal of donating 10,000 pairs of socks.
Donations of new, unopened pairs of socks, as well as monetary contributions, will be accepted at all 23 Peoples Bank branch locations during the month of October. Peoples Bank will also donate socks on behalf of community members who complete a brief online form, available at www.peoplesbank-wa.com/socktober. In early November, donated socks will be delivered to 22 non-profit organizations located throughout Chelan/Douglas, Island, King, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom Counties.
“Considering socks are the most requested clothing item at homeless organizations, ‘Share-a-Pair for Socktober’ is a way for Peoples Bank to help our homeless neighbors and inspire others in the community to do the same,” said Andy Pohlman, Chief Retail Banking Officer at Peoples Bank. “Through donations made at our 23 branches and online participation, we are confident we will exceed last year’s donation of new socks and set a high bar for future programs.”
“It is easy to forget how many hours the homeless spend on their feet during a week, and foot care in any form is always much appreciated,” said Phill Esau, Executive Director of Ferndale-based Wildbird Charity. “The ‘Share-a-Pair for Socktober’ initiative of Peoples Bank is a perfect way to support the less fortunate in a tangible and meaningful way.”
“In the last nine months, our drop-in center for youth in Bellingham has served over 250 unduplicated youth experiencing homelessness. We expect that number to increase rapidly over the fall and winter months,” said Emilio Vela, Jr., Executive Director of Northwest Youth Services. “We appreciate the support of Peoples Bank in raising awareness of the need in our community.”
“New Way Ministries of Lynden exists to provide for the immediate needs of women and children who are in crisis by offering housing, food, clothing, compassionate care and counsel in a loving Christian atmosphere,” said Suzanne Olson, Director of New Way Ministries. “Socks, especially as we enter the winter months, meet a specific need and bring joy and encouragement. We are grateful for the support of Peoples Bank and the members of our local community for their loving concern.”
Peoples Bank was founded nearly 100 years ago in Lynden, Washington with a strong commitment to give back to the communities it serves. The Bank contributes financial support through grants and sponsorships, and its “Community Involvement Day” program offers eligible employees up to eight paid hours annually to volunteer their time, skills and knowledge to improve their communities.
A list of Peoples Bank branch locations accepting sock donations can be found at https://www.peoplesbank-wa.com/locations/.
About Peoples Bank
Peoples Bank is a locally owned and operated, independent full-service community bank with $1.9 billion in assets. Headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, the Bank was founded in 1921 and operates 23 branches located throughout Washington. Reflecting its strong financial management practices, dedicated employees and long-standing customer relationships, Peoples Bank was awarded a five-star superior rating from BauerFinancial, a leading independent bank rating firm, and was named a 2019 Best-In-State Bank by Forbes Magazine. Learn more about Peoples Bank at https://www.peoplesbank-wa.com/.
