Brighton housing charity and rail operator join forces in sock donation scheme to help the homeless

Brighton Housing Trust (BHT) and Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) will join forces to provide support for the homeless in Brighton this winter.

In a new initiative, the Great Sock Appeal, rail commuters passing through Brighton Station will be encouraged to donate a pair of new socks for those sleeping rough.

BHT fundraising manager Lauren Ellis said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen as one of the charities benefitting from the Great Sock Appeal.

“A simple item like a pair of warm, dry socks is essential for someone who is street homeless to protect from the cold and any risks from health issues.

“The donations will go to our First Base Day Centre in central Brighton which helps people move off the streets and find a place they can call home.”

The basic item of clothing is intended to keep feet warm, dry, and healthy for the homeless.

Steve White, chief operating officer at GTR said: “After speaking to Brighton Housing Trust we learnt how vitally important a new pair of socks really is for keeping feet warm and dry, and we are delighted to support them in this work.

“Christmas is a time for giving, and all it takes is one pair of socks, less than the price of a coffee, to improve the life of a homeless person this winter.

“We want to thank our customers and colleagues for their ongoing support for those in need.”

A special donation point will be set up at Brighton station on Thursday, December 5, offering the opportunity to donate a new pair of socks to those in need.

This follows a number of successful appeals at train stations, including an earlier initative at Brighton station which saw commuters donate winter coats.