We are no longer taking collection for Christmas 2024
Please get in touch if you are interested in taking part next year!
What exactly is the Shoebox Appeal?
Ways to get involved
There are many ways to help out. By making your own shoebox gifts, volunteering as a driver to help with collections, or help with packing the shoeboxes onto the lorry at Potto. You could also co-ordinate a local appeal in your area through your church, school, business or with friends & family, or by simply spreading the word about the appeal.
Feel free to download our poster to display in your church or organisation, or contact us and we'll post some to you. A digital version of this year's shoebox leaflet can be found here.
Highlights from the 2023 Christmas Appeal
In 2023, we delivered over 4,000 beautifully decorated shoeboxes to Romania! Download our booklet to see the success of last year's appeal.
"Thank you to everyone that helped make last year's appeal a success!"
How to pack your shoebox:
- Order this years shoebox leaflet from us
- Get a strong shoebox
- Wrap the lid and box separately with Christmas paper
- Fill with gifts of your choice for your chosen age and gender
- Seal the box securely with elastic bands
- Complete a shoebox label (part of the leaflet) and attach to the lid of the box
- Include the £2 donation needed to help cover delivery
- Ensure your shoebox is collected or dropped off before the 15th November 2024
Ideas for what to include:
- Small toys & gifts
- Sweets
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Gloves, scarfs & hats
- Socks & tights
- Hair accessories or jewellery
- Small teddy bear
- Notebook and pens or pencils
- Colouring book
- Games, playing cards & puzzles
- Balloons or stickers
- A Christmas card or note
What not to include:
- Chocolate, dairy or meat
- Medicines or medicinal goods
- Liquids or anything that could spill
- Sanitary products or underwear
- Gifts passed their Use By Date
- Second-hand toys or goods
- Sharp or fragile items
- Money