FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
People living on the streets and in NYC shelters rarely receive donations of socks. In fact, socks are the #1 most requested item in shelters across the country. Think about if you or someone you know has ever donated clothes; has that included socks?
People living on the streets or in other public spaces are extremely vulnerable to a variety of infections and other dangers like hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot. Lacking access to essential supplies like new socks leads to these problems and worsens other conditions. Even if they get addressed, the frequency of infections and repetition of treatment, if accessed, can reduce the effectiveness of remedy options. Take Two NYC aims to mitigate such challenging circumstances faced by so many of our neighbors.
Distributions are done by Take Two NYC volunteers in public parks and train stations, and on subway platforms and sidewalks. We also partner with mobile food distributors and other nonprofits that serve marginalized communities. We currently serve individuals in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Manhattan.
Yes! Socks provide more than warmth. Here are some of the ways that socks can help even when it’s not cold out:
- Sweat absorbance during the heat and a barrier between feet and hot concrete;
- Protection from dirt and sharp objects found on the streets;
- Decreased risk of blisters, infections, and other foot ailments;
- Cushion to move around on feet more comfortably;
- Help with restoring the confidence to stand up and face challenges.
Take Two NYC hosts sock drives through school, community, and business partnerships. We have collected thousands of pairs of new socks through one-night events, corporate partnerships that incentivize giving, and sock drives that run between 2-4 weeks.
We require all sock donations to be new. Other donation guidelines change seasonally.
Our current programs focus on socks. We accept and distribute other supplies on a case-by-case basis.
Our efforts to be kind and responsible to the world around us extend to many of our operational decisions. We are thoughtful about the environmental impact of our activities and we make careful, conscious choices about the materials we use. For example, our donation boxes are all made out of recycled content, and information including donation guidelines along with our contact and website are printed right on the boxes for convenience to donors and to avoid excessive use of materials.
For a recent event where elementary school students made friendship bracelets for their neighbors in need, we used beads that are ethically sourced and made of natural materials, we printed bracelet tags on recycled paper using our in-house eco-friendly printer, and tied them together with biodegradable twine. We continuously strive to find ways to be more environmentally friendly.
Since our founding in fall 2016, we have been and continue to be entirely volunteer-run. Monetary contributions help pay for the transport of socks to/from collection & distribution sites, program supplies, and operational fees.
Take Two NYC Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, public charity registered with the Internal Revenue Service/Department of the Treasury. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.
Make a difference right now by making a donation! We also offer opportunities for individuals, groups, and companies to get involved with collection, distribution, fundraising, and in-kind support. Email us at info@taketwonyc.org to inquire further.
Email us at info@taketwonyc.org with your inquiry. We’d love to hear from you!