Mayo schools and communities unite for 2026 Team Hope shoebox appeal
Schools, families and community groups across Mayo come together to bring Christmas joy to children around the world
Schools, families and community groups across Mayo are being urged to support the 2026 Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal
The international development organisation aims to send 200,000 shoeboxes filled with gifts from Ireland to children in Africa and Eastern Europe who may otherwise receive no Christmas presents.
Last year, Team Hope delivered its three millionth shoebox gift. Organisers are hoping Mayo will exceed the 6,136 shoeboxes collected in the county last year.
Schools, employers, sporting clubs, community organisations and individuals can take part by creating their own shoeboxes or donating €25 to have a box prepared and delivered to a child at Christmas.
Each shoebox contains the four ‘Ws’: Wear, including clothing items; Wash, such as soap, toothpaste and a toothbrush; Write, including colouring books, crayons and markers; and Wow, such as toys and sweets.
Team Hope CEO Deborah Lowry said the shoebox appeal was a simple act of kindness with an international impact. She recalled witnessing the excitement of a child in Burundi opening an Irish shoebox, with the child’s parents sharing in the emotion.
“They felt they had not been forgotten about and were so appreciative of the gifts,” Ms Lowry said. “I really believe the incredible kindness and generosity of the Irish nation should be celebrated.”
Ms Lowry also met Suavis, a mother of nine in Burundi who went on to establish a catering business after taking part in a Team Hope programme.
“Sometimes all families need is a small opportunity and someone to believe in them,” she said. “The support we receive from people across Ireland helps communities build brighter futures for their families. It all starts with a shoebox.”
The 2026 appeal was launched earlier this week at FCJ Secondary School in Bunclody, Co Wexford, which has filled more than 30,000 Team Hope shoeboxes over the past two decades.
Students revisited their former primary schools to encourage a new generation to support the campaign.
Completed shoeboxes can be handed in at more than 400 drop-off points nationwide, or at any Mr Price outlet in Ireland, between November 1 and 10.
Members of the public can also donate €25 to have a shoebox created and delivered up to Christmas Eve.
People in Mayo wishing to take part can find further information on the Team Hope website.