Community
Local Veterans Are Now Part of the Mission
The annual sock drive runs through October 31, with a goal of 3,500 pairs and a new partnership with the VA clinic.
The Basics
West Pensacola Elementary School is once again teaming up with Running Wild and other local businesses and community partners for the annual Socktober donation drive. From October 1 through October 31, 2026, the community is encouraged to donate new socks and other essential items to help individuals and families in need throughout the Pensacola area.
- A drive that keeps growing: Socktober began at West Pensacola Elementary in 2020 with just 422 pairs of socks. Since then, it has grown into a community-wide effort involving students, families, local businesses and neighbors. Last year, the community collected 2,923 pairs. This year’s goal is 3,500 pairs.
What’s new in 2026: For the first time, donated socks will also be distributed to local veterans through the VA clinic, in addition to donations going to Opening Doors Northwest Florida. That means the drive will support both individuals experiencing homelessness and local veterans in need.
Why Help
“We’re proud to continue this partnership and see how our community comes together year after year. This year is especially meaningful because, for the first time, we’ll be able to share donated socks with local veterans through the VA clinic, as well as individuals and families supported by Opening Doors. It’s incredible to see how something as simple as a pair of socks can make a meaningful difference right here in our own community.”
—The Running Wild team
Why Socktober?
Socks are one of the most commonly requested items by organizations serving people in need, yet they are often overlooked in donation drives.
- For someone experiencing homelessness, a clean, dry pair of socks can make a real difference. Socks wear out and get dirty quickly when a person has no regular access to laundry or replacement clothing. New socks provide comfort, warmth and dignity, especially as cooler weather approaches.
Socktober was launched by Brad Montague, creator of Kid President, to encourage people across the country to donate socks while raising awareness of homelessness.
- Locally, West Pensacola Elementary, Running Wild and community partners are continuing that mission and expanding it to support veterans.
How to Participate
Dates: October 1 to October 31, 2026
Goal: 3,500 pairs of socks
Drop-off locations:
- Running Wild Pensacola: 3012 E. Cervantes Street
- Running Wild Fairhope: 72A South Section Street
- West Pensacola Elementary School: 801 N. 49th Avenue
- Select local businesses and community partner locations
What to donate: New, unopened socks for all ages and genders are especially needed. The community is also welcome to donate other essential items, including:
- Jackets
- Blankets
- Shoes
- Hats
- Rain gear
- Bottled water
- Other essential items