Bridge of Hope Christmas Shoebox Campaign: Bringing Joy to Ukrainian Children
The Bridge of Hope organization, part of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton, is excited to announce the return of our Annual Christmas Shoebox Campaign! Every year, this heartwarming initiative helps underprivileged children in Ukraine—whether they live in orphanages or at home—experience the joy of Christmas through the generosity of Canadian parishioners and families.
This year, we aim to reach even more children, particularly those cared for by the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Western Ukraine. Shoeboxes filled with gifts and essential items will be delivered by the Sisters to these children just in time for St. Nicholas Day. Join us in spreading hope and happiness to those who need it most.
How to Participate in the Christmas Shoebox Campaign
1. Prepare a Shoebox
Packing a shoebox is a fun and meaningful way to make a difference. This simple act of kindness can unite families and parish communities in a shared mission of giving. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Choose a Shoebox or Backpack: Select a box or backpack for a child (choose a boy or girl) in the age ranges of 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14 years old.
- Label the Shoebox: Clearly label it with the gender and age range, e.g., “Boy 5-9.”
- What to Pack: Include items like personal care products, school supplies, clothing, toys, and treats. Please avoid liquids, loose candy, battery-operated toys, or heavy items. For a full list of suggested items, visit our website at ourbridgeofhope.com
- Cover Shipping Costs: A $7 donation is requested to cover the cost of shipping each shoebox to Ukraine.
What You Can Include in the Shoebox
Here are some suggestions for items you can pack to brighten a child’s Christmas:
- Personal Care Items: Chapstick, toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap, soap holder, combs, washcloths, hair accessories, manicure sets, band-aids, personal hygiene products, and toiletry bags.
- School Supplies: Pens, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, crayons, markers, writing pads, solar calculators, colouring books, stickers, stamps, watercolours, and paintbrushes.
- Treats: Sugarless chewing gum, chocolates, lollipops, hot chocolate packets, instant coffee (all treats must be individually wrapped).
- Clothing: Backpacks, socks, scarves, shawls, toques, mitts, hats, T-shirts, new underwear, sweaters, pants, shoes, thermal layers, and slippers.
- Toys: Rubik’s cubes, small cars, dolls, stuffed animals, skipping ropes, tennis balls, foam blocks—consider toys that have a long play life and are easy to use.
- Other Items: Insulated tumblers, water bottles, anything featuring the Canadian flag or a maple leaf.
- Do Not Include: War or violence-related toys, breakable items, very heavy items, playing cards, play dough, used items, liquids or gels.
For more ideas on what to include, check the full list on our website at ourbridgeofhope.com under the “Programs” section.
2. Deliver Your Shoebox
Once your shoebox is ready, you’ll need to arrange its delivery. We want to ensure every box reaches a child in Ukraine in time for St. Nicholas Day, so please make sure to meet the submission deadline. Here’s how to deliver your shoebox:
- Deadline: All shoeboxes must be submitted by October 22, 2024. This allows ample time for shipping and distribution to the children before Christmas.
- Contact Information: To arrange delivery, please contact Wanda Kowalchyk at wandamay@telus.net or call 780-993-0216. Wanda will coordinate the drop-off point with you, ensuring a smooth and easy process.
- Volunteer Help: We are also looking for volunteers at each parish to help coordinate the campaign at a local level. If you’re interested in being a parish coordinator, please reach out to Wanda for more details.
The earlier you prepare and deliver your shoebox, the more time we have to ensure it reaches the children in time for this special celebration.
3. Make a Donation
If you cannot pack a shoebox but would still like to contribute to this beautiful cause, donations are a fantastic way to help. By donating, you are allowing us to fill additional shoeboxes with much-needed gifts and supplies. Here’s how you can support financially:
- How to Donate: Donations can be made securely through the eparchial website or by contacting Wanda Kowalchyk directly at wandamay@telus.net or calling 780-993-0216.
- Donate on our Website: Link for Donations – https://eeparchy.com/donate/#donate – Choose the section “Bridge of Hoe Campaign”
- Where Your Donation Goes: Every contribution helps us purchase additional items like personal care products, school supplies, and toys to fill shoeboxes. A portion of the funds also covers the shipping and logistical costs, ensuring each box reaches a child in Ukraine.
Important Dates and Information
- Deadline for Shoeboxes: October 22, 2024
- Website: Visit ourbridgeofhope.com for shoebox packing guidelines and more campaign details.
- Contact Us: For any questions or to volunteer as a coordinator at your parish, please reach out to Wanda Kowalchyk at wandamay@telus.net or call 780-993-0216.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
With so many children in need this year, your support is more crucial than ever. Whether you pack a shoebox or donate, every effort helps bring the light of hope to a child’s life. Thank you for joining us in spreading joy and making this Christmas brighter for the children of Ukraine.