Donations for the 2025 edition of the Nanaimo Shoebox Project can be dropped off at several locations in Nanaimo starting Monday, Nov. 17, to Dec. 8. (Submitted)

By Jordan Davidson

helping hand

‘Little something special:’ Nanaimo Shoebox Project kicks off

Nov 17, 2025 | 11:59 AM

NANAIMO — With November already past the halfway mark, local charities and volunteers are already gearing up for the Christmas season.

The Nanaimo Shoebox Project will be accepting donations starting Monday, Nov. 17, until Dec. 8, at several locations around the city.

Local coordinator Laura Kelsey said donated items in the shoebox are normally geared towards women experiencing or impacted by homelessness, but more gender-neutral items will also be accepted.

“Each shoebox should have about $50 worth of goods in it, so something like warm, woolly winter wear, some basic essentials like a toothbrush and toothpaste, but also like some chocolate, or a candy, maybe some cosmetics. We even get homemade pendents. Things that are useful and yet a little luxury as well.”

She said last year, they managed to collect around 200 shoeboxes, and over 650 in the previous four years.

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Shoeboxes can be dropped off at the administrative office at Nanaimo’s North Town Centre, at the Thrifty Foods inside Port Place Centre, at CurVa-Voom at 1925 Bowen Rd, Serge & Sew at 6750 N Island hwy, or Lobelia’s Lair at #8-321 Wesley St.

Donated items inside a standard size shoebox can be dropped off at multiple locations in Nanaimo. (Submitted)

Kelsey said on Dec. 9, their volunteers will get the shoeboxes ready to be distributed at local organizations.

“This year, it’s the Island Crisis Care Society, who have clients in shelters, and then Risebridge, who work with clients who are currently living unhoused, and then also new this year, Pacifica Housing, we’re trying to raise donations for them as well.”

Items in demand this year include high-quality mittens and gloves, along with other items to keep someone warm.

Kelsey said a more personal note or gift can really make a recipient feel like they’re cared for within their community, along with practical items such as a journal and pen.

“We add in some Hot Packs as well. We buy those in bulk and add those in. Anything that can keep people cozy, and also give them a little something special…think something that you would want to receive when you open up a gift on Christmas morning.”

Items they ask not to include in the shoeboxes are things like candles, feminine hygiene products, used goods, sized clothing, or free product samples.

More information on the 2025 Nanaimo Shoebox Project, including drop-off locations, suggested items, and chances to volunteer, can be found here on their website.

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