Once again, the Shoebox Project for Women in Campbell River will be accepting donations of shoeboxes filled with personal items at their three drop-off locations from now until Dec. 12.
The shoeboxes will be given to women who have accessed shelter or outreach services this past year in the Campbell River area and will help to brighten the holiday season for them.
Shoebox coordinators Alison Skrepneck and Susan Dyson are asking members of the community to fill shoeboxes with personal items that a woman might like - lotions, hair care, makeup, brushes, combs, and personal care products or items – things that a woman would enjoy but may not have access to or the means to purchase for herself in times of difficulty.
The small act of filling a shoebox, decorating it and including an inspirational card has a big impact on the woman who receives it.
A special gift, just for her, will not only brighten her day during difficult times, but it will also let her know that someone in her community is thinking about her, and remind her that she is not forgotten.
That is called showing some “Shoebox Love”. Filling the shoeboxes is an opportunity to give back to someone in the community.
Creating a shoebox valuing about $50 can be done alone, with a friend or a group. Suggested items for the shoeboxes include:
- body or hand lotions.
- makeup (mascara, lipstick, nail polish – please, no concealer or foundation).
- chocolates, cookies or candies (nut-free products only, please)
- shampoo, conditioner.
- brush, comb.
- other scent free personal items (no razors).
- mitts, hat, scarves.
- phone or gift cards (include value of the card).
- pool, bowling or movie passes.
- inspirational quote, card or message.
The decorated shoeboxes should not be wrapped shut as they must be opened for inspection before they can be distributed. Once filled, the shoeboxes can be taken to one of the drop-off locations in Campbell River until Friday Dec. 12:
- Coastal Community Credit Union in Discovery Harbour.
- Serendipity in the Garden on Shoppers Row.
- Sundance Java Bar in Sunrise Square at Willow Point.
This is the second year for the project in Campbell River.
“Last year we were overwhelmed by the response. It was so heartwarming to see the love, thought and care people put into making the shoeboxes for the women. We heard that the women loved the shoeboxes,” said Skrepneck.
The Shoebox Project for Shelters is a charitable initiative and believes that a small gesture can make a big difference. Started in Toronto by four sisters-in-law in 2011 it now operates in 30 cities across Canada.
In 2013 thanks to the generosity of hundreds of Canadians 9100 shoeboxes were delivered to women in shelters and outreach programs in 26 communities. Last year Campbell River doubled their goal and 155 gifts were delivered to women in the community. It is expected that number will be surpassed this year.
The shelters provide emergency and transitional services to women who have fled an abusive or dangerous living situation, women living with mental illness, newcomers to Canada, and women living in poverty who are unable to access safe, affordable homes. The Shoebox Project delivers boxes to women who are homeless for any reason.
Donations to the Shoebox Project are also accepted, by visiting the website at www.shoeboxproject.com and clicking on the “Donate” button. Tax receipts will be issued for donations over $10. (Please note that tax receipts cannot be issued for the donation of gift boxes).
For more information go to www.shoeboxproject.com, or call Alison at 250-203-9360 or Susan at 250-914-4498.