Icelandic shoebox gifts will go to children in Ukraine

Gifts collected through Iceland’s annual Christmas in a Shoebox project will be sent to children in Ukraine, mbl.is reports. The project, run by the organisations KFUM and KFUK, is now beginning preparations for its 23rd year.

The international initiative invites children and adults to give Christmas presents to children living with poverty, illness and hardship. As in previous years, all the gifts will go to Ukraine, where they will be distributed in areas of severe poverty. Recipients will include children at orphanages and children’s hospitals, as well as children of single mothers living in extreme poverty.

“We are very grateful to everyone who takes part in this project with us. It is valuable, and sends a good message, to teach our children and grandchildren to think of those who are less fortunate,” said Ingibjörg Valgeirsdóttir, the project manager. She said packing shoeboxes has become a tradition for many families, schools, community centres and workplaces.

The project has typically sent between 4,000 and 5,000 boxes a year. Individuals and companies are encouraged to contribute. Boxes should be suitable for children of different ages and genders, and include at least one item from each of these categories: school supplies, toys, hygiene products, sweets and clothing.

Boxes can be delivered to Holtavegur 28 from November 9 to 14.