Socktober Success & Kindness Week at SJHN
During the month of October, the Newman Health and Wellness Council and SJHN Peer Mentors led our annual Socktober Campaign, raising awareness about the urgent need for socks within our community. While we have previously supported our local Food Bank with food and hygiene items, this was our second year focusing specifically on collecting new adult socks—one of the most needed yet least donated items by shelters.
Throughout the month, Period 1 classes participated in a friendly competition to donate new adult socks between October 1 and November 3. With the help of social media posts, morning announcements, and student-designed posters, our school community rallied together. The top three donating classes were rewarded with a donut and juice celebration for their efforts.
Thanks to the generosity and spirit of service within the St. John Henry Newman community, over 1,200 pairs of socks were collected—nearly double last year’s total. Donations were delivered to Mission Services, Good Shepherd, De Mazenod Door, and Public Health Service Mental Health Street Outreach and Harm Reduction Programs. Mission Services shared their gratitude, noting that access to clean, dry socks helps minimize the risk of infections, blisters, and frostbite, and brings warmth and dignity to those in need.
Giving back not only supports our community but also strengthens our own mental well-being. This campaign was a reminder that when we come together, we help others feel valued, supported, and cared for.
Kindness Week: “Kindness Kounts at SJHN”
In November, the Newman Health and Wellness Council and SJHN Peer Mentors continued their commitment to promoting well-being by organizing a week of activities for Kindness Week. Celebrating World Kindness Day on November 13, the team hosted events from November 14–21 to reinforce our school-wide message that kindness is a daily practice.
Students and staff took part in a variety of uplifting activities, including:
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Selling and delivering cookie grams, with proceeds donated to Kids Help Phone
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Playing Plinko for prizes
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Sharing kindness messages
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Offering “pay it forward” opportunities
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Learning about the science-backed benefits of everyday acts of kindness
The enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from our school community made Kindness Week an incredible success. We are already excited to begin planning our next school-wide event.
The Newman community continues to demonstrate that compassion, generosity, and kindness truly make a difference. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported these initiatives!