The Treasure Coast Sock Drive has returned for its eighth consecutive year, continuing a heartwarming tradition that has grown from a single Amazon box into a massive regional movement. Running now through February 28, 2026, this year’s drive aims to collect 20,000 pairs of new socks to support the unsheltered and underserved populations across Vero Beach, Indian River County, and St. Lucie County.
What began seven years ago as a modest effort by founder Barry Shapiro has exploded in scope. Shapiro initially set out to support a friend’s charity in New Jersey, only to discover a critical local need: socks are consistently the number one most requested item at homeless shelters. Without access to regular laundry facilities, socks worn by those constantly on their feet wear out quickly, essentially becoming disposable.
“An Amazon package arrived at my door today and to my delight it was children’s socks from our Amazon Wish List! The first socks of the year,” says Barry Shapiro. “The generosity of the holiday season gets people into a giving mode for their favorite charities, too.”
From Humble Beginnings to Community Pillar
The initiative’s history is a testament to the generosity of the Treasure Coast. In its inaugural year, Shapiro utilized a few donation boxes and daily Facebook posts, hoping to gather a couple of hundred pairs. To his surprise, the community responded with 1,000 pairs. The momentum has not slowed since.
Over the past seven years, the drive has collected and distributed a staggering 63,178 new pairs of socks. The operation expanded significantly when Bill Douglas and Stacy Murto of The Web Wise Guys joined the team to provide digital support. Today, the drive supports not just sock collection, but also distributes t-shirts, underwear, flip-flops, and toiletries to ensure comprehensive support for neighbors in need.
2026 Goals and New Partnerships
For the 2026 campaign, the organizers have set an ambitious goal of collecting 20,000 pairs of socks. The drive has also expanded its reach further south, thanks to support from the HR and Business Leaders Council of Florida. Co-founders Anita Fischer, Tammy Lane, and Sarah Torres have pledged to add 10 additional donation boxes throughout St. Lucie County, helping to broaden the impact of the initiative.
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Residents looking to get involved have two exciting community events to mark on their calendars this February. These gatherings offer a fun way to donate while connecting with neighbors:
3rd Annual Cops and Socks
When: Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Where: Coffee House 1420
Local law enforcement officers will step behind the counter to serve as “baristas in uniform.” Guests who bring a donation of brand-new socks will receive a complimentary cup of coffee.
4th Annual Treasure Coast Sock Drive SOCK HOP
When: Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: Walking Tree Brewery
This Valentine’s Day “dance to warm our community” features live music from Professor Pennygoode’s Mighty Flea Circus, a dance contest, and prizes. Attendees who bring a new package of socks will receive a free beer.
Local Impact
The donations collected remain in the community, benefiting a vast network of local organizations. The socks and supplies are distributed to 25 charitable beneficiaries, including:
With the drive running through the end of February, there is ample time for Vero Beach and Treasure Coast residents to contribute. Whether dropping off a package at a local donation box or attending the Sock Hop at Walking Tree Brewery, every pair counts toward the 20,000 goal.
