How that old shoebox in your closet can make a big difference to women experiencing homelessness in Calgary

We’ve all done it. After buying a new pair of shoes, we keep the box in case we need it one day.

Well, it’s time to dig out that old shoebox and put it to good use.

The Shoebox Project has launched the 2022 Holiday Drive as a way to help women experiencing homelessness.

The initiative started in Toronto in 2011.

Since then, more than 251,000 shoeboxes filled with approximately $14 million in gifts and essentials have been distributed across Canada.

Making an impact in Calgary

Calgary’s chapter of the Shoebox Project is still small, but coordinator Apisha Sri says it makes an impact.

“In Calgary last year, we distributed about 205 shoe boxes, 238 gift cards, so a total of 443 donations with a total value of about $22,000,” Sri says.

With community support, Sri is hopeful that 500 shoeboxes can be donated in Calgary this year.

“I really hope that it makes a difference to those impacted this year by the economic crisis,” she says, noting the inflation and rising cost of living.

“I think we really are in a crisis and the more people we can help the better.”

How to get involved

Calgarians can help by decorating a shoebox and filling it with approximately $50 worth of essentials and gifts.

Suggested items include soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, fuzzy socks, a writing journal and pen, nail polish, and beauty products.

Messages of support and encouragement can also be included in the boxes.

“We collect all of those [boxes] and then distribute them to homeless shelters across the city,” Sri says.

Donations are also accepted online and volunteer opportunities are available.

Support from a great partner

Sri is thankful to Allstate Canada, which has been a big supporter of the Shoebox Project over the past six years—donating more than 6,500 shoeboxes and $150,000 across the country.

“We know that the holiday season can be especially tough for women impacted by homelessness,” says Allstate president and CEO London Bradley.

“We often take for granted how the simplest things can make a major impact to those in need. That’s why we’re proud to continue to reaffirm our commitment to this wonderful organization that is making a difference for so many women across Canada.”

The Shoebox Project Holiday Drive runs until Dec. 6.

Filled shoeboxes can be dropped off at the Calgary Northwest Agency located at 150 Crowfoot Cres. NW, Unit 305, and the Calgary South Agency at 5222 130 Ave. SE, Unit 354.

UPDATE (Dec. 15): The 2022 Holiday Drive was a huge success.

A total of 549 shoeboxes valued at $27,450 were collected and delivered to nine local shelters and agencies: The Mustard Seed Foothills Shelter, Sonshine Community Services, Awo Taan Healing Lodge, Alpha House, Women In Need Society, Rowan House, The Salvation Army Women’s Residence, Oxford House, and Women’s Centre of Calgary.

“We would like to send a thank you from the bottom of our heart to our community for the amazing donations we received this year,” says Sri.

“We had a goal of 500 shoeboxes this year and we can’t believe we surpassed it! Thank you again for supporting our mission of helping women and families impacted by homelessness.”