This December, Sewa Day and Communities Working Together are joining forces in a bold mission: to pack and distribute 1,000 shoeboxes full of gifts for people in need across Nottinghamshire and surrounding communities.
The initiative — now entering its sixth year — invites the local public, schools, businesses, faith groups, and community organisations to join hands in spreading kindness and hope.
Who benefits?
The shoeboxes will go to a wide range of people who often miss out on Christmas gifts:
Homeless individuals
Young carers
Care leavers
Children on free school meals
Survivors of domestic violence
Teens and adults in hardship
In past years, the appeal has delivered gifts to multiple charities and agencies across Nottinghamshire.
What to donate
The organisers are appealing for small, gift-friendly items that can fit inside a standard shoebox. Ideal donations include:
Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.)
Socks
Hats, scarves & gloves
Small toys / games
Chocolates / sweets
No donation is too modest — even a single useful item helps. The boxes will be wrapped and prepared for distribution.
How to get involved and help
Drop-off or collection: The appeal will accept donations via volunteers or at designated drop-off points – bit.ly/shoeboxmap
Phone contacts: Hetvi (07581 422396), Rani (07739 296 582), Lee (07900 908 829), Janet (07788 808 555)
Email: shoeboxappealnotts@gmail.com
Online & wishlist: A Linktree / Amazon wishlist is available for virtual giving (see the poster’s QR link)
Packing & distribution day: 13th December — this will be the main event when the objects are wrapped into boxes and distributed
Why this matters
For many families, pressures of everyday life leave little room for extra generosity at Christmas. This appeal offers a tangible way for the community to step in. In previous years, local volunteers and donors have responded generously: in one past campaign, over 1,400 shoeboxes were donated with involvement from schools and local businesses.
Volunteers and supporters have described the appeal as “overwhelming” in its response and spirit, emphasising that “no donation is too small”.
What you can do now
Start collecting suitable small gifts (toiletries, gloves, toys, etc.)
Wrap (if possible) or prepare them for placing in a shoebox
Reach out via phone or email to ask about your nearest drop-off point or volunteer to help with collection
On 13th December, join in the packing & distribution day
Let’s make 2025 a year of giving, unity and joy — together, we can help thousands feel remembered this Christmas.
