When people think about essential donations, they usually think about food, winter clothing, or hygiene products. But, what about new, clean underwear?
Underwear is a fundamental necessity that directly supports hygiene, comfort, and dignity. It is also one of the few clothing items that must be new when donated, making access to it especially important for people who may not otherwise have access to clean underwear themselves. This makes underwear one of the most practical and essential items for people experiencing crisis, housing instability, or significant life changes.
Underwear donations matter to shelters, community organizations, and support programs. When someone is dealing with homelessness, poverty, health issues, or family instability, access to clean, new underwear can help make everyday life feel a little more manageable.
At Devon & Lang, that understanding is part of the company’s give-back model. We support multiple organizations that work with vulnerable people, including The Alex and the Calgary Drop-In Centre. These organizations help people facing complex realities, from housing instability and financial pressure to health challenges and ongoing crises. Our goals is to donate over 500,000 pairs of underwear by 2032.
Devon & Lang donated more than 3,200 pairs of underwear and apparel to The Alex and the Calgary Drop-In Centre in September 2026 alone. The team delivered the donation directly to both organizations. Our team reflected on why new underwear donations are so important. It’s not that underwear isn't useful, they meet a real need with something people can use right away.
At The Alex, wraparound support includes health care, mental health services, housing, food security, youth and family support, and community connection. At the Calgary Drop-In Centre, practical essentials can help support people experiencing homelessness or severe instability. For both organizations, clean underwear donations can help people feel more comfortable, more cared for, and better supported in daily life.
The value of underwear donations is not only physical. A clean, new pair can reduce stress, support routine, and restore a sense of dignity. When so much feels uncertain, meeting a basic need can still matter in a big way.
We are proud to provide practical essentials that help people feel clean, comfortable, and not forgotten.
Clean underwear donations may seem small from the outside. For the people receiving them, they make a real differenceÂ
