Just one shoebox filled with the right items can make a small difference this season to help women in Nanaimo affected by homelessness.
Donations for the Shoebox Project in Nanaimo will be accepted until Monday, Dec. 5, and people are asked to fill a standard-sized shoebox with $50 worth of gifts and essentials usable by any woman, according to the Shoebox Project website.
People putting together a box should include a gift card – preferably $10 from a grocery or drug store – shampoo and conditioner, body wash, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, socks, chocolate or candy (not containing nuts), cosmetics, hand-warmers, hats, mitts or scarves, sunscreen, face cream, lotion or cleanser, facial mask, eye mask, lip balm and a journal or colouring book.
Used and unpackaged items, hotel or free samples, sized clothing, products containing alcohol such as mouthwash or sanitizer, candles, tampons and pads, razors and perfumes are not to be included.
Organizers ask that boxes be decorated, with no bows and ribbons and unsealed, so items can be inspected. A note or card with encouraging greetings should be included, although envelopes shouldn’t be sealed.
People can also create a shoebox virtually through the Shoebox Project website, with charitable receipts available.
Boxes will be distributed to Island Crisis Care Society clients and organizers have a goal of 130 shoeboxes; 100 boxes were collected last year, according to Laura Kelsey, Nanaimo coordinator.
Boxes can be dropped off at Nanaimo North Town Centre, Thrifty Foods at Port Place Shopping Centre and CurVa-Voom.
For more information, go to www.shoeboxproject.ca/chapters/nanaimo. More information on the society can be found at www.islandcrisiscaresociety.ca.
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karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com
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