I was invited to a holiday cocktail party recently, and the smart hostess (who happens to be my neighbour) asked the attending ladies to bring along a Shoebox for the Shoebox Project. This seasonal self-esteem enhancer provides holiday gifts for women affected by homelessness currently living in shelters. I’ve loved this idea since I first heard about it - but this was the first year I actually put a box together and contributed. If you to would like contribute to this very important project, I’ll be collecting boxes at my home to then pass on to my neighbour for delivery. The deadline is tight - this Tuesday the 11th for delivery on the 12th. Drop me a line at vicki@glimmerlife.ca if you need my address.

Here are the simple steps to putting a box together:

1. Grab a shoebox from your closet - not too big and not too small. Maybe from a nice pair of loafers.

2. Wrap and decorate your box in two parts - top and bottom, like you always see on tv. If you have trouble with this - check out the tutorial here, but I found it a little confusing tbh. So I just kinda faked it and it worked.

3. Fill your Shoebox with about $50 worth of good quality items - think things that you would like to receive. Mine included: shampoo, soap, a puff, a Starbucks gift card, nice socks, a facial mask, a eye pillow, and a lipgloss in a neutral shade. Items that would make someone feel special. In keeping with my personal beliefs, all my beauty products were safe beauty.

This list comes directly from the website:

Suggested Items to Include:

• Something warm: socks, mitts, scarf, hat, hand warmers 

• Something sweet: nut-free chocolate and candy (not alcohol-filled)

• Cough drops, multivitamins 

• Body or hand lotion, soaps, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss

• Brush, comb, shampoo, conditioner

• Nail polish, mascara, eye shadow, lipstick, lip balm

• Purse-sized Kleenex, small cosmetic bag

• Gift cards (Tim Hortons, Shoppers, McDonalds, etc.)

  • Please write the amount on the card or include the receipt

• Presto Card

• Journals, colouring books, pens, coloured pencils

• Supportive message

DO NOT INCLUDE:

• Used goods and hotel samples are not the type of items to make someone feel special and loved

• Sized clothing (i.e. S, M, L, XL) should not be included because beautiful women come in all different sizes

• Mouthwash or hand-sanitizers containing alcohol

• Bubble bath or bath bombs, as most shelters do not have bathtubs

• Candles

• Foundations or concealers should not be included because each person has a unique skin tone

• Razors

• Jumbo-sized containers

• Books

• Feminine hygiene products

• Anything opened or not packaged

My completed box looked like this:

4. Include a card with an uplifting message of inspiration for the recipient.

5. Drop off at my place - or I’ll even come and pick up if it’s easier for you!

Thank you….you are awesome, appreciated and beautiful!

xo.