That’s the idea behind the 15th annual Socks for the Sole drive, now underway in Fort Dodge. Organized by the Community Health Center of Fort Dodge in partnership with Shimkat Motor Co., the drive collects new socks for children and teens across the area — helping families prepare for the new school year.

Donations of new socks for kids from preschool through high school are being accepted now through Aug. 1 at Shimkat Motor Co., 3126 Fifth Ave S.. Shimkat will match every pair donated by the community, doubling the impact.

Most-needed items are black and white crew or ankle socks, but all new socks are welcome. Every pair donated goes directly to a child in the Fort Dodge area who could use a fresh start this fall.

“New socks are something many of us don’t think twice about,” said Regina Suhrbier, outreach coordinator at the Community Health Center. “But for some families, it’s one more expense. This drive helps meet a simple need — and lets local kids start the year off cared for and comfortable.”

Socks will be distributed on Aug. 7 at the annual Back-to-School Block Party, hosted by Community Health Center of Fort Dodge and Upper Des Moines Opportunity. The event will be from 5 to 8 p.m. behind the Health Center, 126 N. 10th St., and is free and open to all.