As we all know, winters in Northcentral Pennsylvania can get cold; very cold. What you may not know is that not everyone has enough warm clothing to keep winter’s chill at bay. This is why the Lycoming County United Way, Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, and the Leadership Lycoming Class of 2025 have stepped up. Their initiative, “Warming Feet, Warming Hearts,” is a program designed to deliver Bombas socks and information about PA 211 resources to local businesses across the area.
Bombas, a clothing retailer, has been working to help those experiencing homelessness since its founding. According to their website, part of their mission has been to recognize that putting on clean, comfortable clothing every day is a very powerful thing. So, for every one of their items purchased, the company will donate a like item to charity. The program works by enlisting Giving Partners such as businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations to help distribute items to those in need. To date, Bombas has helped more than 3,500 community organizations give over 100 million items of clothing, including socks, underwear, and t-shirts, to shelters, nonprofits, and community organizations.
Lycoming County United Way was proud to become a Bombas Socks Giving Partner a few short years ago and has been able to distribute well over 5,000 pairs of socks to local organizations and individuals. Amber Newell, Director of Community Impact at Lycoming County United Way, spoke about the importance of thinking outside the box with this initiative. “When most people think of Bombas socks, they might picture them going to shelters or directly to individuals experiencing homelessness. We do provide socks to those organizations, and that is important. But, through this project, we’re showing how these socks and the resources they represent can go to unexpected places, like local businesses that can gift them to customers. There are neighbors in need everywhere. It’s a reminder that we all play a part in sharing resources and kindness.”
Each pair of socks, a small but universally appreciated item, comes accompanied by PA 211 resources. PA 211 is a comprehensive, free service that connects individuals with local resources, including housing assistance, food pantries, mental health services, and more. Those looking for help with various needs can simply dial 211, text their zip code to 898-211, or visit the website to chat or explore resources at pa211.org. Through this effort, the hope is to raise awareness about the great resource that PA 211 is not only for those seeking help but those giving it as well. Agencies and organizations that provide services can register to receive referrals at https://www.pa211.org/for-providers/.
For Lycoming County United Way President and CEO Ron Frick, the initiative represents a powerful way to remind people that community care starts with simple acts. “Warming Feet, Warming Hearts is about more than socks,” Frick shared. “It’s about showing our community that we see them, we care about them, and we’re here to support them. Small gestures like this have a way of starting larger conversations about what it means to live in a compassionate, connected community. And that’s the real goal.”
Mark Stankiewicz, Vice President of Operations, Marketing, and Communications at the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, stated, “The Chamber of Commerce is excited to join forces with the Lycoming County United Way for this campaign. By leveraging our relationships with the businesses in our great county, we are confident that these vital resources will be readily available to those in need. It is extremely important to give back when you are able, and this is a wonderful way for businesses in the county to be equipped with tools to help our neighbors. A simple act of kindness can go a long way, and we are excited to see how much this program can grow and thrive.” The Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to preserve, protect, and defend the free enterprise system through promoting a vibrant business climate and quality of life for the businesses and people of Lycoming County. By teaming up for this initiative, the Chamber of Commerce is living out what they strive to do.
Newell remarked, “Like the United Way, the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce believes passionately that community matters. We were so happy when they agreed to partner with us on this initiative and offer it as an opportunity to be part of leadership development by bringing in their Leadership Lycoming participants.” Leadership Lycoming is a specialized training program designed to understand the needs of the community it serves and develop and motivate effective leaders committed to utilizing their skills and talents for the betterment of their community. The Leadership Lycoming class participants will be involved in putting packages together and ensuring successful deliveries to businesses. They will also have more opportunities to gather information on what businesses are up to and identify needs in the community.
Local businesses can request to have socks delivered while supplies last by visiting the Lycoming County United Way Facebook Page and registering at the link provided on the pinned “Warming Feet, Warming Hearts” post. They may also email unitedway@lcuw.org or call 570-323-9448 for more information.
