Sock collection initiative to assist homeless

Tamara Bull displays some of the socks she has collected to help the homeless through 519Pursuit. Her goal is to collect 519 pairs before the Nov. 15 deadline. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Tillsonburg resident Tamara Bull is looking to collect 519 pairs of socks as part of an initiative to assist area homeless people.

Called 519Pursuit, the initiative started to help the homeless in London through a partnership between the London Food Bank and RBC Place London. It has since expanded to help those across the 519 area code, and beyond. This includes Tillsonburg.

Bull heard about the initiative and started collecting socks the past few years. Homeless people hold a special place in her heart since she can relate from a family connection and the streets of Toronto.

“When my dad first came to Canada, he was homeless for a period of time,” she said.

The kindness of a car dealer that left a vehicle unlocked for him to sleep in and the Salvation Army got the new Dutch immigrant on his feet.

Bull also related to a few local connections. Two of her donors were formerly homeless themselves. One was living out of his car in November 2022, was moved into affordable housing, then moved to British Columbia and has life back on track. Another was on the streets as a homeless drug addict last year.

“Once this young man hit rock bottom, some caring outreach individuals assisted him and changed his life completely,” Bull said. “Today, he is in a valuable relationship and has gained employment. His entire world was turned around because we did not give up on him.”

The 519Pursuit pledge has participants collecting socks from Oct. 1 to Nov. 15. Bull has been collecting socks for several years and this year is determined to reach the goal of 519 pairs. She is hoping the community can assist, and is asking for new socks.

“A part of it is respectful pride,” she said. “You receive a brand-new pair of socks with a label on them.”

Anyone wanting to donate socks can e-mail her at tamara.h.bull@gmail.com or message her through Facebook.