Lincoln’s Homeless Coalition is mobilizing the community to gather hundreds of pairs of socks for its upcoming Project Connect event, scheduled for Wednesday at Pinnacle Bank Arena. The nonprofit highlighted the urgency of the request after a forecast predicted significant rain that could turn the gathering into a health hazard for the city’s most vulnerable residents.
Why dry socks matter
Jade Fowler, a spokesperson for the coalition, explained that wet feet can quickly lead to serious medical conditions such as frostbite, trench foot, or even amputation. “Having dry feet and dry socks really are catalysts to not having frostbite or not having trench foot or not having to get an amputation,” Fowler said.
Event details and services
Project Connect will offer more than just socks. Attendees can expect free food, bike repairs, haircuts, medical services, and a variety of other resources aimed at restoring dignity and basic comfort to those experiencing homelessness. Organizers anticipate a line of roughly 700 people waiting to enter the arena.
How to help
The coalition has set up two drop‑off locations for sock donations: the Region V office at 3600 Union Drive and the arena itself. “It’s kind of a tight turnaround, but we’re really hoping to have some options for us,” Fowler added, emphasizing the community’s role in meeting this immediate need.
A call to neighbors
Fowler appealed to Lincoln residents, noting the economic challenges many face while urging compassion. “In times that can be very hard in our economic standing, I know that this can be a big ask. These folks are our neighbors. And they deserve some dignity and a basic need to be met,” she said.
The coalition’s request underscores a broader commitment to caring for the most vulnerable members of Lincoln’s community, especially as inclement weather threatens to exacerbate existing hardships. By providing dry socks, volunteers and donors can help prevent medical complications and ensure that participants stay safe and comfortable during the event.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
