Shoebox Project Seasonal Gift Drive Underway

The Campbell River Shoebox Project’s annual holiday gift drive is underway.

Launched on November 12th, this year’s “Unity is the Heart of Community” campaign invites the public to support women facing homelessness or other economic and systemic barriers.

The goal is to empower them to dream, rebuild their confidence, and embark on new beginnings.

Women who receive the Shoebox gifts come from diverse backgrounds and face numerous challenges. They may be survivors of domestic violence, have lost their jobs and income, be newcomers to Canada, or be experiencing mental health issues or disabilities.

The Shoebox Project 2023 recipient survey revealed that women who receive a Shoebox gift feel hopeful, joyful, seen, and, most importantly, valued.

The Goal for this year is over 500 gift-filled Shoeboxes for women in need in Campbell River and 100 gifts for Port Hardy/North Island.
Alison Skrepneck, Local Shoebox Project Coordinator, says there is more need than ever this year in the community.

“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.”

Decorated Shoeboxes (with lid and bottom wrapped separately) can be dropped off at one of the following Drop-off Locations between November 12th and Friday December 6th:

• In Campbell River: Coastal Community Credit Union (Discovery Harbour), La Tee Da Lingerie (Shoppers Row), or Classy Katz Consignment (Willow Point).
• In Port Hardy: North Island Crisis & Counselling Centre Society (Beverly Parnham Way)

You can also donate online or create a Virtual Shoebox at Shoebox Project.

The Shoebox Project for Women has been delivering gifts to local vulnerable women since 2013 in Campbell River and expanded to Port Hardy/North Island in 2017.

Gifts delivered to shelters and outreach agencies last year were valued at $26,650.

Last year, Campbell River saw almost 460 Shoeboxes provided for local women.

Organizers say donations have been down in Port Hardy/North Island since before the pandemic, and they are hoping to see that change this year.