Courier christmas shoebox appeal needs YOU

Wilson Simms, chair of Community Vocational Committee and Bryan Harkness, Shoebox team leader, launch the Rotary Club and Halifax Courier Shoebox Appeal

The Courier has teamed up with Rotary Clubs of Calderdale and thousands of shoeboxes are ready to be filled over the coming months to make a difference to less fortunate children, struggling families and vulnerable adults in our area.

Last year, charity began at home and 2,500 shoeboxes were filled by readers, schools and agencies with toys, food, toiletries and clothing accessories.

This charitable giving captured the true spirit of Christmas and was so successful that we’re running it again. With you, we’re hoping to bring a smile to vulnerable members of our society.

How you can help: visit one of the participating outlets (see below) to collect your shoebox. Fill with toys, toiletries, tinned/dried food, gloves, scarves and hats - suitable for babies, children, teenagers and adults, and return to one of the outlets anytime during the eight-week campaign.

If you are a school or organisation and require more than ten boxes scheme co-ordinator Rotarian Bryan Harkness can arrange larger orders. St Chads CE Primary School, Hove Edge, and Withinfields Primary School, Southowram, are already on board.

Bryan said: “Any reasonable request for flat-packs will not be refused and can be swiftly be collected from our Voluntary Action for Calderdale (VAC) depot on Hall Street, Halifax, or delivered directly to you.”

VAC is handling the sorting, storage and distribution to the charities and causes. Soo Nevison said: “Orders from 2012 benefiting agencies are already piling up.”

If you represent a group or organisation who can identify suitable needy recipients contact VAC 01422 438728.

How you can help:

Shoeboxes are ready for collection as of today! (Friday)

Get your Christmas shoebox from the following outlet:

Halifax: The Courier reception; Harveys Cook Shop; Asda; Tesco; Sainsburys.

Brighouse: Tesco.

Elland: Morrisons.

Hebden Bridge: Co-Operative.

Todmorden: Morrisons.

Fill them with toys, toiletries, food, and warm clothing accessories suitable for small children through to adults and return to any of the outlets throughout the eight-week campaign.

If you are a school or large organisation requiring a quantity of shoeboxes contact Rotarian Bryan Harkness 07770471698 or email [email protected] to arrange collection/drop-off of shoeboxes.

Last year, was the first year in which 2,500 Christmas shoeboxes with gifts were given to children and adults in need. So far, benefiting charities include SmartMove, Orangebox, Noah’s Ark Rainbows, Basement Recovery Project, Project Challenge, and Age UK - with more charities expected to receive and distribute shoeboxes.