The Shoebox Project is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
During the holiday season, the national registered charity collects and distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to shelters for women impacted by homelessness.
“The Shoebox Project provides women with the essentials they need and small gifts they appreciate, but it’s so much more than that,” executive director Lesley Hendry said in a news release.
“This gift drive connects communities by facilitating compassionate gestures of kindness. The idea that a person in their community took the time and effort to assemble a special gift and to write a thoughtful greeting can mean the world to a woman who is feeling scared, invisible, or alone.”
The Saint John Chapter is participating this year after a two-year hiatus due to resources and COVID-19.
“To return this year when we know that the pandemic has worsened housing and security for women, in particular, was really important to us, and we’re hoping to build momentum so we can continue to grow and serve even more groups next year,” said Jessica Hanlon, coordinator for the Saint John Chapter.
Gifts that can be put in the shoeboxes include soap, shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste.
“They also include little luxuries such as gift cards, cozy socks, and beauty products, just things that give an invaluable message to a woman who finds herself in a shelter that she’s cared about and that she deserves to feel special,” added Hanlon.
Locally, shoebox presents will be gifted to First Steps Housing this year.
Filled shoeboxes can be dropped off at Steeves’ Pharmasave at Parkway Mall until December 19.
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