Huge Mayo effort helps shoebox appeal break 3 million barrier

11,414 Christmas shoebox gifts for children affected by poverty over the last three years have been donated by the people of Mayo. 

Since 2010, Team Hope has delivered over 2.8million shoebox gifts from Ireland to countries across Africa and Eastern Europe - and will ship off its three-millionth in the coming weeks.

“The support we have received from the people of Mayo since 2010 has been incredible,” said Team Hope CEO Deborah Lowry.

“But there’s always a need for more shoeboxes, so it would be great if schools, parents, businesses, and community groups across the county could come together for one last push to create their own.

“They are often packed by children for children and carry not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope.

“That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten – that someone, somewhere cares about them.”

 Drop-off points are still open across the country until November 15.