The annual shoebox appeal is back… but they need extra help this year

As mums, we try our best to ensure our little ones have a happy, fun and memorable Christmas, receiving a gift that will make their eyes open in wonder!

Last year, charity Team Hope delivered more than 250,000 shoeboxes contaiing gifts to children in Africa, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union.

This year they are raising the bar even higher, and are asking people to double their own impact by encouraging their friends, family members or colleagues to get involved.

“Our Christmas Shoebox Appeal helps bring joy, laughter and hope to children living on the margins of society, victims of war, disease or poverty in some of the world’s most underdeveloped countries,” Niall Barry, Executive Director of Team Hope, said.

“In reality, we understand that we will never have enough shoeboxes to give to every child who needs one, the need is too great, however we are determined to try and share our message of hope with as many children as we possibly can this year.”

And getting involved is EASY.

All you have to do is:

• Find an empty shoebox
• Wrap it with Christmas paper (lid and box separately)
• Fill it with gifts for a boy or girl aged between two and 14
• Attach €4
• Bring it to a local drop off point before FRIDAY, 10th NOVEMBER; to find your nearest drop-off point visit www.teamhope.ie.

Remember, every shoebox counts because every child counts, and for these children (whose families typically live on less than €1 a day) this gift from Ireland may be the only present they will receive this Christmas.

When considering items that are best to gift, think of the 4W’s:

• Write – pen, pencil, copybook, paper, colouring book, felt pens, sharpener, eraser, solar calculator (these children have no access to batteries).
• Wash – toothbrush and toothpaste, soap (wrapped), facecloth, hairbrush, comb.
• Wear – a hat, scarf, gloves, socks or underwear.
• Wow – sunglasses, games, small Irish gift, a photo of yourself, sweets (must be in date until at least April 2018), make up, a small musical instrument, toys like a doll, a car, cuddly toy, skipping rope, yo-yo or finger puppet.

There are 400 drop off points nationwide, including all Axa, FastFit/FirstStop branches and Toymaster stores. To find your nearest drop-off point visit www.teamhope.ie. 

The Parenting Masterclass with MummyPages takes place on Saturday, 21st October. Book now and get your place at a choice of workshops including First Aid, Money Matters, Weaning, Bullying and Mental Health.