TV sports presenter, mum and author, Jacqui Hurley is calling on families, schools, businesses and communities across Kerry to join in the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.
Since 2010, the Appeal has delivered 2.5 million shoeboxes to children in countries across Eastern Europe and Africa who are experiencing poverty.
These shoeboxes, filled with essential items as well as something fun, are lovingly created by people all across the country. They are often the only gift these children receive that year. Last year, shoeboxes from Kerry went to children in Romania.
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Jacqui Hurley said, “Let’s get together and bring hope and joy to as many children as possible. It’s so easy to get involved and each year this simple act of kindness, filling a shoebox with gifts to bring a smile to a child’s face, lets these children know that they are in the heart and minds of the people of Ireland.”
To get involved, simply think about who your gift is for – a boy or girl aged between 2-14, wrap a shoebox in colourful, bright wrapping paper and be sure to include at least one item from the 4 W’s:
· Something to write with. Perhaps include copybooks, pens or colouring pencils
· Something to wear. Maybe a hat, scarf and gloves, warm woolly socks or a t-shirt
· Something to wash with. A lovely bar of wrapped soap, a facecloth, some toothpaste and a toothbrush
· Something wow. Think of a toy or game that will bring a smile to a child’s face – maybe a puzzle or doll or a toy car or soft toy.
Pop a Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal label on the front, include €5, close the lid and secure with an elastic band. If finding a shoebox is tricky, you can buy flat pack boxes in Dealz stores nationwide or, build a box online at www.teamhope.ie/shoeboxappeal.
Shoeboxes should be dropped off at one of hundreds of drop off points nationwide, or at your local DEALZ store by the 10th November.
Alternatively, you can build a box online at https://www.teamhope.ie/christmas-shoebox-appeal/take-part-online/.
For teachers who would like to get their class involved, there are lots of class lesson plans and teaching resources available online. For businesses who would like to get involved, a site visit can be arranged to discuss how you can support Team Hope not just at Christmas but year round.