Shoebox Project helps local women affected by homelessness

Local resident Kerri Murphy is once again seeking support from the Kawartha Lakes community in her efforts to reduce the feelings of isolation faced by local women who are impacted by homelessness this holiday season, one shoebox at a time.

Murphy is the volunteer coordinator for the Kawartha Lakes chapter of The Shoebox Project for Women, a national charitable organization which collects and distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to women impacted by homelessness and poverty in Kawartha Lakes.  Each shoebox represents hope and dignity, reminding women that they are valued, seen, and cared for. It’s a small gesture of kindness that has an immediate and positive impact on the woman who receives it.

This year’s Shoebox holiday drive extends from Nov. 12 through Dec. 12.

Shoeboxes are valued at $50 and fit within a standard-sized shoebox. It is requested that an encouraging note be included in each box. It is important that the top and bottom of the shoebox are wrapped separately to allow for inspection. A complete list of recommended items to include and leave out is outlined on the shoeboxproject.com website as is a tutorial on how to wrap a shoebox.

Drop off locations for shoeboxes include Cathy Allan Ladieswear in Lindsay, Paradiso Boutique in Bobcaygeon, and Lock 34 Yoga in Fenelon Falls.   Recipient agencies of shoeboxes include Women's Resources, A Place Called Home, Fourcast Addiction Services, and Kawartha Lakes Food Source.

The goal, locally, is to reach 200 shoeboxes this holiday season.