Nanaimo Shoebox Project accepting gifts as part of holiday drive

A non-profit wants to start filling shoeboxes with gifts for women in Nanaimo who are experiencing homelessness. In a press release, the Nanaimo chapter of the Shoebox Project announced it will hold a collection drive from Monday, Nov. 17, to Dec. 8, seeking “shoeboxes full of essential items and special gifts for local women impacted by homelessness.” Items such as toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste and soap) and gloves, journals, pens and dark chocolate are sought, the press release noted. Donors are also encouraged to include a card “with an inspiring message,” the release added. Island Crisis Care Society, Risebridge and Pacifica Housing will distribute the shoeboxes, which can be dropped off at Nanaimo North Town Centre’s administration office, Thrifty Foods at Port Place Shopping Centre, CurVa-Voom, Serge and Sew and Lobelia’s Lair. The goal is 210 shoeboxes this year. The project has collected more than 650 shoebox gifts since 2021. “We are so grateful to the community for their generosity,” said Laura Kelsey, Nanaimo Shoebox Project coordinator, in the release. The drive has expanded to include gender-neutral shoeboxes as well. For more information on the Shoebox Project, go to www.shoeboxproject.ca/chapters/nanaimo [https://www.shoeboxproject.ca/chapters/nanaimo].