Build a shoe box to make a child smile
Local Team Hope volunteers issue Christmas appeal
Local families, schools and communities are called on to join in the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal before the end of the month, to provide essential items and gifts to children in need.
Since 2010, the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal has delivered 2.5 million shoeboxes to children in countries across Eastern Europe and Africa who are affected by poverty and marginalisation.
Alison Murphy is the lady in charge of gathering shoeboxes across the Westmeath area and she’s hoping for a positive response locally.
"Items are divided into four categories called the four Ws," she explained. "The first W is something to write with - so school supplies. Children like to have copybooks, pens, pencils, colouring books and things like that."
The second W is something to wash, such as toothbrushes, face cloths or other hygiene products, "because hygiene items are a luxury when you’re struggling to put food on the table".
The third W is something to wear, and Alison explained that this often includes hats, gloves, or underwear - all of which should be age appropriate.
The final W is something to "wow", "so something to play with," said Alison, "that could be a cuddly toy, a car, a yoyo, dominoes, sweets".
There are three age categories for both boys and girls, those are ages two to four, five to nine, and 10 to 14.
"If people want to donate, they should wrap the lid and the box separately, so everything can be checked to ensure it is appropriate," said Alison.
When the boxes are done, they can be dropped off to Fagan’s Toymaster in Mullingar, or either of the two Dealz stores in the town.
"If anybody wants to help us, there’s a check-in centre at the youth hub on Spoutwell Lane," said Alison, "we will be in the centre every evening next week."
Alison is hoping to send off the Westmeath boxes on November 21 and says all boxes should be dropped in by November 18 to ensure they are included. For further information, contact Alison on 087 689 4597.
You’ll find out all you need to know, what to include and where to drop off your shoebox at teamhope.ie.
You can also build a box online at teamhope.ie until December 23.