Hanes Uses Social Media for Virtual Sock Drive

Just when I thought helping others couldn't get better!

It's impressive how imagination combined with the use of social media platforms can create even the simplest of ways to give to others this season. Hanes(R), known as America's No. 1 apparel brand, announced on December 21, 2009 that it will donate up to 100,000 pair of socks to the less fortunate this holiday season. How? They will donate one pair of comfortable real socks for every virtual pair of socks that social networkers send to friends.

Hanes' Facebook page visitors (www.facebook.com/hanes) may select a predesigned pair of Hanessocks that can be virtually sent to a friend. For each virtual pair of socks sent, Hanes® will donate one actual pair of socks to the United Way, one of Hanes' longtime charitable partners.

Their campaign asks supporters if they are aware that socks are the most requested items in homeless shelters. And, to be honest, I wasn't aware of that although it makes a lot of sense. When they are not in the shelter, homeless people spend their entire day walking around looking for food or simply another place to stay, carrying whatever belongings they have left. For this reason, socks and shoes become one of their most valued and needed items.

Here's why you should participate:

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness,

1. Homelessness does not discriminate.
2. Families with children, single adults, teenagers, and elderly individuals of all races struggle with the devastating effects of homelessness.
3. Homelessness exists across the country, in small rural towns, suburban neighborhoods, and large metropolises.
4. The primary cause of homelessness is a lack of affordable housing.
5. Over 5 million low-income households have serious housing problems due to high housing costs, substandard housing conditions, or both.

So what are you waiting for? Go to www.facebook.com/hanes for details!

About Hanes(R)

Hanes is a leading brand of intimate apparel, underwear, sleepwear, socks, and casual apparel. Hanes(R) is a flagship brand of Hanesbrands Inc.(HBI:NYSE). Hanes(R) products can be found at leading retail stores nationwide and online direct to consumers at www.hanes.com

About United Way

United Way is a worldwide network in 45 countries and territories, including nearly 1,300 local organizations in the U.S. It advances the common good, creating opportunities for a better life for all, by focusing on the three key building blocks of education, income and health. The United Way movement creates long lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of problems that prevent progress in these areas. LIVE UNITED is a call to action for everyone to become a part of the change. For more information about United Way, please visit: LIVEUNITED.org.