Highlighting Our Partners at Hippy Feet!

Hippy Feet is a Minneapolis-based socks and apparel company that dedicates 50% of its profits to organizations working to end youth homelessness. They’ve contributed over $80,000 to nonprofits since 2022, including $15,000 to The Link!

As Hippy Feet’s founder Michael Mader shared, “My proudest accomplishment to date is knowing there are youth who no longer are experiencing homelessness as a direct result of the wages we paid them.”

Established in 2016, Hippy Feet has evolved its approach to supporting youth experiencing homelessness. Initially operating on a “buy one, give one” donation model, the organization quickly recognized the need for a more sustainable solution. Understanding that donated socks alone could not address the root causes of homelessness, Hippy Feet transitioned to an employment program.

From 2018 to 2021, Hippy Feet implemented an employment program that provided income and valuable experience to young people affected by homelessness. In partnership with The Link and Youthlink, the organization identified candidates for this program. These individuals were offered six months of employment and referrals to future opportunities.

The founder of Hippy Feet considers the program’s most significant achievement to be the direct impact on young people who transitioned out of homelessness due to the wages they earned. Michael shared a particularly memorable moment with us, when he ran into a former participant of both The Link and the Hippy Feet employment program. This young person was working full-time, validating the program’s success in helping young people secure stable employment, and serving as a powerful reminder of the program’s tangible impact.

Looking ahead, Hippy Feet aims to expand its custom socks and knitwear program. The organization specializes in creating custom socks, sweaters, beanies, blankets, scarves, mittens, hoodies, and other items featuring clients’ logos, colors, patterns, and branding. Committed to sustainability, all products are American-made using eco-friendly materials such as recycled cotton, organic cotton, or Merino wool. As always, every order directly supports Hippy Feet’s mission to provide resources and opportunities to young people affected by homelessness.