Louth urged to get involved in shoebox appeal
Schools, families and community groups across Louth have been urged to participate in the 2026 Team Hope Christmas shoebox appeal ahead of the November 10th collection deadline.
Louth schools, families and community groups have been urged to get involved in the final fortnight of this year’s shoebox appeal.
Last year, the county helped the charity reach their three millionth shoebox gift by creating 2,480 shoeboxes for the appeal, and Team Hope distributed the gifts from Louth to children in Burkina Faso, Eswatini and Romania.
“Christmas shoeboxes are a very simple concept, and an international act of kindness for tens of thousands of children across the world,” said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry.
Lowry personally witnessed the excitement and emotion as one child in Burundi, Africa, opened an Irish shoebox, with the joy shared by their parents.
“They felt they had not been forgotten about, and were so appreciative of the gifts. I really believe the incredible kindness and generosity of the Irish nation should be celebrated.”
Lowry also met Suavis, a Burundi mother of nine, who went on to set up a catering business after taking part in a Team Hope programme.
“Sometimes all families need is a small opportunity and someone to believe in them.
“The support we receive from people across Ireland helps communities build brighter futures for their families. It all starts with a shoebox.”
The international development organisation said it aims to send 200,000 shoeboxes filled with presents from Ireland to Africa and Eastern Europe for children who may not otherwise receive Christmas gifts.
Schools, employers, individuals as well as sporting and community organisations can get involved here.
The 2026 shoebox appeal was launched at FCJ Secondary School in Bunclody, Co Wexford, which has filled more than 30,000 Team Hope shoeboxes over the past two decades.
The students re-visited their old primary schools - and encouraged a new generation of boys and girls to get behind the life-changing campaign.
Completed shoeboxes can be handed over at 400 drop off points nationwide, or at any Mr Price outlet in Ireland, between November 1st and 10th.
The public can donate €25 for a box to be made right up until Christmas Eve.