Wexford’s Generous Support Helps Team Hope Reach 3 Million Shoebox Milestone

Over the past three years, the people of Wexford have generously packed a total of 19,822 Christmas shoebox gifts for children living in poverty, contributing to a national total that has helped Team Hope surpass 3 million gifts. This year, the charity is set to send its three-millionth shoebox, marking a significant milestone in its mission to bring joy to children in some of the poorest regions of Africa and Eastern Europe. Since 2010, Team Hope has distributed more than 2.8 million shoebox gifts, filled with toys, school supplies and treats, to children in need. The charity is now focused on reaching the 3 million mark, a goal they are set to achieve in time for Christmas. According to Deborah Lowry, CEO of Team Hope, the support from the people of Wexford has been instrumental in helping the charity reach this landmark. “The generosity of Wexford’s donors has been extraordinary over the years and we are incredibly grateful for the community's continued involvement,” Lowry said. “However, there is still time to make an impact. We encourage schools, families, businesses and community groups across the county to join us for one final push before the deadline.” Team Hope’s Christmas shoebox appeal is a simple but powerful way for people of all ages to help brighten the lives of children who have never known the joy of Christmas. The shoeboxes, often packed by children for children, contain not only fun gifts like toys and sweets but also the more profound gifts of love and hope. For many of these children, receiving a shoebox serves as a reminder that they are not forgotten, offering a sense of connection with a world far beyond their own. With the charity marking its 15th anniversary this year, the 3 millionth shoebox is a poignant reminder of how much the campaign has grown since its humble beginnings. Team Hope works year-round to collect, pack and deliver the shoeboxes, with an ever-growing number of volunteers across Ireland, the UK, and beyond. How to Get Involved Wexford residents can still contribute to the campaign by dropping off filled shoeboxes at the following locations around the county: - Bailey’s Toymaster, Gorey - First Stop Wexford - Gorey Credit Union - Gorey Pharmacy - Smyths Homevalue, Enniscorthy - Top Tyres Wexford - Whitford Hotel Pool, Wexford - Wexford Volunteer Centre - First Stop Enniscorthy - Axa Insurance Wexford - Wexford Community Church - Local volunteer Lorna Burt, Enniscorthy All filled shoeboxes must be dropped off by November 15 , so there’s still time to take part. Alternatively, donors can opt to send a personalised €25 shoebox online via Team Hope’s website, with online donations accepted up until Christmas Eve . “We want to make sure that as many children as possible experience the joy of receiving a gift this Christmas,” said Lowry. “With the support of Wexford, we can help Team Hope achieve that goal.” To learn more about the campaign, view drop-off locations, or donate online, visit www.teamhope.ie .