New name, same mission

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This article was published 03/12/2018 (2746 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The name might have changed, but the intention remains the same.

This year sees the launch of the newly branded Shoebox Project for Women, supported by Dream. The difference is that the word “women” replaces “shelters” this year.

Now in its sixth in Manitoba, the non-profit initiative’s goal is still to provide gifts to women living in shelters, but now it’s expanding its reach. According to Alex Todd, the co-ordinator of the Manitoba Chapter, the new name better reflects the supporting role the project plays to all of its partners who work hard to support and provide services to women who are homeless or are at-risk of being homeless.

“The rebrand better reflects what we do,” Todd said, noting this year’s deadline for the shoxboxes to be dropped off at a number of locations across the city is Dec. 10.

“Our mandate remains the same, and shelters will always be a priority, but our original name was very specific in definition, and the reality is we now provide shoeboxes to partner agencies and facilities beyond shelters. However, the one thing these organizations have in common is that they all serve women in the community.”

As well, the nuts and bolts of the project remain the same. Participants are asked to fill and decorate shoeboxes with around $50 worth of items that a woman can use or enjoy, but might not necessarily splurge on for herself in difficult times.

The long list of accepted items includes basic necessities such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, and individuals can also consider donating items such as body lotions, soaps, makeup, mitts, hats, toques, and scarves.

“I want to emphasize that the goal is to provide a very special shoebox filled with full-size products, and not miniature-sized versions of these. As a guide, think about things you might give to family or friends,” Todd said.

She added that a key part of the shoebox is an inspirational message, whether in the form of a note, card or poem, that can be included in the box.

“We need to help women feel they are important, and this isn’t something to take lightly. To receive a written message that says, “I’m thinking of you’ or ‘you’re not alone’ or ‘you’re important’ can make such a difference. It’s a situation that, on any given day, and any given circumstance, we could all find ourselves in. We just never know,” Todd said.    

Since 2013, through generous donations from community and corporate members, Todd said, the Manitoba Chapter has “processed and facilitated the delivery of more than 8,500 shoebox gifts to the oft-overlooked women living in shelters, at-risk of homelessness, or who are homeless.”   

And once again, for the third year, St. Eugene Parish on St. Mary’s Road in St. Vital is offering its support to the project.

“The parish is still involved, which is marvellous, and we’re so lucky to have that space again this year,” Todd said.

Go online at www.shoeboxproject.com/manitoba.html for more information, including a list of drop-off locations, and items that should and should not be included in a shoebox.