14-Oak is a Perth-based sock shop.
For every pair of socks you buy, we give a pair to someone in need in our local community.
I'm Matt Mckenzie, a business journalist in Perth, WA. Check out my Linkedin profile here.
Walking down Hay Street one evening, I saw a homeless man settling in for the night under an awning. The contrast was jarring – between a man desperately in need and the city around him. I wondered how I could help.
A few months later, I discovered programs in Perth distributing essentials to people in need. Particularly in winter; homeless people suffer a range of problems with their feet, because they don’t always have something cosy and warm to slip their toes into. I had a keen interest in starting a social enterprise and I enjoy fashion.
And that’s what sparked this idea.
What is the last thing you do before you leave home every day? You put on your socks and shoes. A stylish pair of socks can really take your outfit up a notch.
Why 14-Oak?
When I was younger, my grandparents lived at a house at number 14 on their street. I chose the number as a tribute to my grandma who looked after me when I needed it most, despite struggling as a pensioner at the time.
She put me on a positive path in life and I would not have had as many opportunities in this world without the lessons she taught me and the support she gave me.
For every pair of socks you buy, we give a pair to someone in need in our local community.
I'm Matt Mckenzie, a business journalist in Perth, WA. Check out my Linkedin profile here.
Walking down Hay Street one evening, I saw a homeless man settling in for the night under an awning. The contrast was jarring – between a man desperately in need and the city around him. I wondered how I could help.
A few months later, I discovered programs in Perth distributing essentials to people in need. Particularly in winter; homeless people suffer a range of problems with their feet, because they don’t always have something cosy and warm to slip their toes into. I had a keen interest in starting a social enterprise and I enjoy fashion.
And that’s what sparked this idea.
What is the last thing you do before you leave home every day? You put on your socks and shoes. A stylish pair of socks can really take your outfit up a notch.
Why 14-Oak?
When I was younger, my grandparents lived at a house at number 14 on their street. I chose the number as a tribute to my grandma who looked after me when I needed it most, despite struggling as a pensioner at the time.
She put me on a positive path in life and I would not have had as many opportunities in this world without the lessons she taught me and the support she gave me.