Irish shoeboxes may be only gifts that thousands of children get this Christmas
Team Hope chief executive Deborah Lowry says the Christmas shoebox appeal is a very simple concept, and an international act of kindness for tens of thousands of children across the world. Picture: Fintan Clarke.
Schools, families and community groups across Cork are being encouraged to participate in the 2026 Team Hope Christmas shoebox appeal, ahead of the collection deadline on November 10.
In 2025, Cork helped the charity reach their three millionth shoebox gift, by creating 16,021 shoeboxes for the appeal, with Team Hope distributing the gifts from Cork to children in Ukraine, Romania and Eswatini.
The international development organisation said it aims this year to send 200,000 shoeboxes filled with presents from Ireland to Africa and Eastern Europe, for children who may not otherwise receive Christmas gifts.
“Christmas shoeboxes are a very simple concept and an international act of kindness for tens of thousands of children across the world,” said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry.
She outlined that she personally witnessed the excitement and emotion as one child in Burundi in Africa opened an Irish shoebox, with the joy shared by their parents.
“They felt they had not been forgotten about and were so appreciative of the gifts. I really believe the incredible kindness and generosity of the Irish nation should be celebrated,” added Ms Lowry.
As well as delivering shoebox gifts to children in Africa and Eastern Europe, Team Hope also delivers a range of community development initiatives which strengthen families, increase resilience and create lasting change.
Ms Lowry also met Suavis, a Burundi mother of nine, who went on to set up 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,” added Ms Lowry.
Schools and employers, as well as individuals, sporting and community organisations can get involved in the 2026 Team Hope Christmas shoebox appeal at www.teamhope.ie.
They can create their own shoeboxes, or donate €25 to have one created and delivered into the hands of a child for Christmas.
Shoeboxes contain the four ‘Ws’: Wear (clothing items); Wash (soaps, toothpaste, toothbrush); Write (colouring books, crayons, and markers) and Wow (toys and sweets).
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