Soup or Socks Campaign Seeks Donations

New Year, New Threads – Back to School Clothing Event Happening This Week

Celebrating 25 years in Marshfield, Soup or Socks (SOS) has been a staple in the community by providing everyday essentials to those in need. Located at the First Presbyterian Church, 200 S Lincoln, the pantry serves hundreds of families each year. Like the acronym implies, SOS exists to help people in an emergency.

SOS began in 1992 as a food only organization called the Marshfield Area Pantry. Two years later, clothing was added and the name changed to Soup or Socks. Cheryl Hartl has been the director since 1997 and said that SOS came about when several area churches, human service organizations and concerned citizens expressed an interest in opening a pantry and to this day, remain active supporters.

“The community has always been very generous with donations,” Hartl said. “Many local churches maintain a donation basket in their church. The large community wide food drives each year are a true blessing.”

Hartl said that while a wide variety of food is accepted, the most needed items vary. They are often looking for jelly, baking mixes and canned stew or chili. For clothing, children’s sizes 5 and up are sought. If lending a helping hand is possible, volunteers are always needed.

Rotary Winter Wonderland donation to Soup or Socks.

Focus events also help with specific needs. Said Hartl, “Our next project will be our New Year, New Threads – Back to School clothing event. We will be working on this August 7 to 10. We have 50 children registered for 2017 in 4K through 12th grade. We are in need of volunteers as well as clothing in sizes 4T through adult XL and shoes in all sizes that are new or very gently used.”

Soup or Socks is a United Way Partner Program and referral service. Open hours for donations are Monday – Friday from 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm. For questions on donations or need of service, SOS can be reached at 715-387-1796 or through the Marshfield Area United Way at 715-384-9992.