Locals in County Louth have generously created 9,491 Christmas shoebox gifts for children affected by poverty over the past three years, helping Team Hope reach the milestone of 3 million shoeboxes delivered nationally just in time for Christmas.
Since 2010, Team Hope has sent over 2.8 million shoebox gifts from Ireland to countries across Africa and Eastern Europe, and the charity’s three-millionth shoebox is set to be shipped in the coming weeks.
Figures from the charity show that in the last three years alone, almost 10,000 gifts were packed by kind-hearted donors in Louth. And there is still time to add to that total, drop-off points remain open around the county until 15 November.
“The support we have received from the people of Louth since 2010 has been incredible,” said Team Hope CEO Deborah Lowry.
“But there’s always a need for more shoeboxes. It would be wonderful if schools, parents, businesses, and community groups across the county could come together for one last push. These boxes, often packed by children for children, carry not only toys and treats but the invisible gifts of love and hope. They remind a child far away that they are remembered and cared for.”
Reaching the 3 million shoebox milestone coincides with Team Hope’s 15th anniversary, highlighting the charity’s long-standing mission of bringing happiness to children in some of the world’s poorest communities, many of whom have never experienced the joy of Christmas.
Donors in Louth can drop off filled shoeboxes at:
- The Mill Enterprise Hub, Greenhills, Drogheda
- Dundalk FM
- Axa Insurance, Drogheda
- Dealz, Drogheda Town Centre
- Local volunteer Vanessa Harte
Alternatively, supporters can send a personalised €25 shoebox online via Team Hope’s website right up until Christmas Eve.
To get involved, see www.teamhope.ie
