In New Jersey, U.S., The Happy Feet Project has warmed the toes (and hearts) of more than 80,000 people.
By Laurie J. Bode, member, Kiwanis Club of Long Beach Island, Surf City
In the same year that Kiwanis International is celebrating its 110th anniversary and Key Club International is celebrating its 100th, our Kiwanis Club of Long Beach Island, Surf City, New Jersey, U.S., celebrates its 50th. So there’s no better time to highlight an impactful project started by one of our members.
In 2016, Faith Dixon read an article about the impact that a new, warm pair of socks can have on someone’s life. In fact, it is the most sought-after item among those experiencing homelessness in the U.S. A recent statistic shows that one in 30 children experiences homelessness — 51% of whom are under age 5. A pair of new socks prevents many common ailments, reduces bacteria and medical problems, warms cold feet, brings dignity and comfort, and shows that people care.
With Faith’s dedication and encouragement, the Happy Feet Project was initiated. The results have been astounding. During the first year, we collected and distributed 3,650 pairs of new socks — and the project only grew from there. In 2019, with the help of our middle and high schools (the students initiated an intraschool competition), the number of sock pairs collected and distributed soared to over 16,000. In 2024, over 11,000 pairs of socks were collected and distributed.
Partners, volunteers and others
Faith has worked hard to enlist businesses and private members of our communities to help collect socks — and to become partners in “a community that cares.” As a result:
- We average about 20 collection sites with drop-off bins each year. In 2024 we set a record with over 40.
- We deliver between 300 and 500 pairs of socks to 15 distribution centers each year.
- The total pairs of socks we have collected and distributed in the project’s first nine years exceeds 80,500.
Although Faith was the force and inspiration behind the Happy Feet Project, we couldn’t have achieved these results without the service of several other club members. Our local school children also have been a crucial part of the program. It gives them great satisfaction to know that Kiwanis cares about children and members of their communities, and that they have become a big part in making a difference in someone’s life. This is life-changing for them — potentially even inspiring them to become future Kiwanians as they learn the importance of service in their communities.
As Faith says, “When you are surrounded by people who share a commitment around a common purpose, anything is possible.”
Has your club implemented a program to help those experiencing homelessness? Let us know what you’re doing at shareyourstory@kiwanis.org.