What We Do
“One cold day I was distributing our product at a free meal event in the inner city when a man approached me wearing old boots that were worn nearly paper thin. He removed his boots to show me he was wearing plastic bags to keep his feet dry. He did not own any socks. I gave him a couple pairs, along with the boots I was wearing. With tears in his eyes, he thanked me for remembering those who are often forgotten.” - Stew Shepard, co-founder of The Drawer
“Having The Drawer support The Link with these generous donations provides hundreds of young people with something they need every day but... often lack the resources to purchase.” - Lauren, The Link
Socks and underwear are distributed through social service agencies, on the streets, in schools, and at community meals and food shelves. The Drawer goes anywhere the community is in need.
“Volunteering with The Drawer gives me a sense of community as well as a sense of altruism. I like that such a simple idea makes such a significant difference.” - Gaye Lynn, The Drawer volunteer
“In more ways than one, it has been a lifesaver. From a single mother of 6 whose washing machine keeps ruining her children's clothing, to a single father of 3 girls who isn't the most comfortable shopping for items for his kids. The items we received have provided tremendous opportunity for our families in need!” - Solid Ground
“My whole family can be involved with The Drawer. My son has been volunteering since he was 4, and I appreciate that The Drawer helps me teach my kids the importance of helping others.” - Dana, The Drawer volunteer
“We can't expect people to thrive without their basic needs met. Having clean undergarments is something everyone should have access to. It is amazing The Drawer provides that for so many different places.” - Neighborhood House MN
“I received pairs of socks and underwear for my two teenage daughters and my grandson. I wasn’t going to ask for any for myself, but the lady from The Drawer insisted that I pick out a pair of each. She said she was a mom and understood that I wanted to take care of my kids first, but she said it was important that I took care of myself, too. That really touched me, and I want to thank her for seeing me as someone important enough to give me what we needed.” - A struggling mom
“Socks and underwear are something that we go through very fast when handing out items to the youth. This is something we need to ask our community for and if we can have this support from your organization, we can ask for more food items for the youth for our pantry!” - Hope 4 Youth
What We Do
The Drawer partners with organizations throughout Minnesota and Western Wisconsin to provide new socks and underwear to communities in need. We donate these items, free of charge, to our partner organizations - removing the barrier to access to basic need items and providing them with support for their missions through each and every pair given.
The need is great
There is a desperate need for new socks and underwear among the homeless and underprivileged. Men, women, and children are forced to re-wear these items when they lack the resources for new ones. Beyond warmth and dignity, health issues are concerns.
Dignity for All
No exceptions. Regardless of your financial or living situation, gender identity, race, age, or religious belief, you are worthy of honor and respect. That is why The Drawer provides only new, never before used, socks and underwear.
Action and Service
We are here to serve through our actions of support, empathy, and kindness. We work with community organizations, individuals, and partners to hold collection drives, prepare the product for distribution, and distribute the socks and underwear. Become a friend of The Drawer to be a part of our mission today.
Pairs of Care Blog
Read up on the latest news on our Pairs of Care, updated bi-monthly to showcase our recent highlights from the impact and outreach of our mission.
A Word from our Founder
Most of you know that Debby and I have this passion for collecting new socks and underwear.
Underwear Insecurity Among Children
Underwear is a basic necessity of life, but it is something that many children in the United States lack.
Why Socks Matter
For people experiencing homelessness in our communities, a pair of clean, dry socks is so much more than just an item of clothing.
Get Involved Today
Being involved with The Drawer can be one-time or on-going, and is easy and fun for all ages and abilities. Regardless of how you volunteer, The Drawer will provide continuous support and guidance to ensure success.