‘Sock Hop with a Twist’ Returns to Support the Community The St. Thomas Seniors Centre will be rocking and rolling on Saturday, November 30th, from 1 pm to 5 pm, as the annual Sock Hop with a Twist returns for another afternoon of music, dancing, and community spirit. The event, held at 225 Chestnut Street, is organized by Rose Gibson, whose family sponsors the event with the help of a dedicated team of friends. “The Sock Hop is all about fun, friendship, and giving back,” says Rose. “It’s an afternoon filled with dancing to live band entertainment and a DJ, with lots of fun games and dance prizes. There’s even a cash bar and kitchen.” The first Sock Hop was held in 2016, born out of a simple yet pressing need in the community, a lack of socks. “There was a great need for socks at the time,” Rose explains. “We realized how fortunate we were and wanted to help meet that need. When we saw how successful the first event was, we knew we had to keep it going.”
Since that first year, the Sock Hop has grown into a beloved local tradition, collecting thousands of donations for com- munity organizations. Over the past nine years, the event has gathered an astounding 16,000 new pairs of socks, along with 600 gently worn pairs, 121 winter coats, 60 pairs of boots, 52 pyjama sets, 1,100 scarves, 600 toques, and much more. All donations are distributed to organizations across St. Thomas and Elgin County, including the Inn, YWCA, Smiles for Seniors, Fresh Start, Grace Café, the Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard and Christmas Care. “Last year we even helped with four family emergency requests,” Rose recalls. This year’s entertainment includes WrifWraf, fronted by Randy Dawdy, performing classic rock hits from the 60s through the 80s, with Guppy DJ Service spinning favourite dance tunes and taking requests. Admission is a new package of socks, which also earns attendees a free door prize ticket. Guests can bring additional items such as winter wear, food, personal hygiene products, or toys to receive more prize draw entries. For Rose, the most rewarding part of the event is seeing the impact firsthand. “The biggest smiles come from the charity organizers and the individuals receiving the donations,” she says. “It fills my heart knowing our community comes together year after year to care for others.”
Hometown St. Thomas • November 2025 • Page 3
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