Nov. 12 marks the official kick-off of the Campbell River Shoebox Project’s annual holiday gift drive.
The campaign, titled "Unity is the Heart of Community," encourages the public to support women experiencing homelessness or confronting economic and systemic challenges.
Alison Skrepneck, the coordinator for the local Shoebox Project, said the community's need is greater than ever.
"The goal is to empower these women to dream, rebuild their confidence, and embark on new beginnings," states a Nov. 1 media release. "The community’s generous donations, whether monetary or in-kind, are crucial in uplifting and empowering women on their journeys."
A shoebox gift for a woman could contain a $10 gift card, daily essentials (body lotion, deodorant), little luxuries (journal, pen), something sweet, something warm (socks, gloves, or a hat), and an inspirational message, totalling $50 in value.
The women who receive these gifts come from different backgrounds and encounter a wide range of challenges, according to the release. These women may be survivors of domestic violence, have lost their jobs and income, be newcomers to Canada, or be experiencing mental health issues or disabilities.
These circumstances affect a growing number of women in the Campbell River community, who once were at risk and now find themselves in vulnerable situations.
The goal for this year is to collect over 500 gift-filled shoeboxes for women in need in Campbell River and 100 gifts for Port Hardy and North Island.
"Some of the agencies have requested more shoeboxes for 2024, and we will also be delivering shoeboxes to several new sites, including Eagle Harbour and Homewood Transitional Housing," Skrepneck said.
Decorated shoeboxes filled with gifts can be dropped off at several locations between Nov. 13 and Dec. 6. These include Coastal Community Credit Union (Discovery Harbour), La Tee Da Lingerie (Shoppers Row), and Classy Katz Consignment (Willow Point).
