Blythswood Shoe Box Appeal


Each year we prepare shoe boxes of gifts for distribution by Blythswood Care. During the weeks leading up to the collection date, we suggest items which you may wish to donate week by week. The boxes are made up and collected from us in early November.


We acted as the local depot in 2009, and collected over 1,000 boxes from schools, churches, individuals and other community groups.


During the year, if you wish to prepare for the appeal, here are some tips, based on our experience:

  • Collect STANDARD size adult shoe boxes (not oversized trainer or boots boxes, nor very small children shoe boxes), and cover the box and lid separately with Christmas paper.

  • Think of one age group, and consider donating consistently for that age. Boxes are made up for children aged 3 & above, plus teenagers, men, women & elderly women.

  • Donations suitable for boys aged 8 & above, and older men are consisently less than other groups - can we remedy this?

  • Buy shampoo bottles that will easily fit into a standard size shoe box, and sellotape down the lid, to avoid spillage.

  • Buy small or bendable notebooks / colouring books.

  • Check the "best before" dates on sweets carefully, and remember that chocolate in any form is not allowed.

  • If you want to give additional items check the full list on www.blythswood.org

There will also be an opportunity at some point to give money towards the cost of transporting the boxes to their destination.

Suggested week by week donations (2009)

This is a guide to help you, all donations are welcome at any time. Covered shoe boxes before 6 November.

Collection boxes are by the church doors.

16 August - Soap & face cloth
23 August - Shampoo & brush/comb
30 August - Plain or coloured pencils, pens, sharpeners, rules & rubbers
6 September - Toothpaste & toothbrush
13 September - Small notepads, small colouring books (to fit into standard shoe box), felt tips, small toy (new)
20 September - Roll on deodorant for men/women, shaving foam & razors
NO CLOTHING FOR UNDER 3s PLEASE
27 September - New socks/tights & pants for girls, teenagers & women (including elderly)
4 October - New socks & pants for boys, teenagers & men
11 October - Hats, scarves & gloves for boys, teenagers & men
18 October - Hats, scarves & gloves for girls, teenagers & women
25 October - Kitchen utensils & screwdrivers / pliers. Household (not ornamental) candles
1 November - Rolls of sweets, eg fruit gums, werthers. No chocolate. No lollies or loose sweets. Best before date MUST be visible on each item & be March 2010 or later.