‘It meant so much’ - Waterford schools urged to support Christmas shoebox appeal

Schools across Waterford are being urged to spread festive cheer to children living in poverty by backing Ireland's biggest Christmas charity appeal.

Team Hope, the charity behind the nationwide Shoebox Appeal, has launched its 2025 drive, calling on Waterford pupils, families, and community groups to get involved by packing a box of gifts and registering at teamhope.ie.

The campaign delivers shoeboxes filled with toys, sweets, clothes and stationery to children in Africa and Eastern Europe who otherwise may not receive a present at Christmas.

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Since 2010, more than 2.8 million boxes have been delivered, and the charity aims to surpass the three million milestone this year.

Team Hope CEO Deborah Lowry said: "A simple shoebox, often packed by children for children, carries not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope.

"That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten – that someone, somewhere cares."

One man who knows the power of the appeal is Adas Rakauskas, who received a shoebox as a child in Lithuania. He remembers food being scarce, often just "bread or some carrots" on the table.

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Receiving a shoebox packed with stationery and small gifts left a lasting impact. "What struck me most was that someone had put this together. It meant so much," he said.

Now a dad-of-three in Co Louth, Adas continues the tradition by making shoeboxes each year with his own children.

Team Hope is urging Waterford schools to do the same and help light up Christmas for children who might otherwise go without. To take part in the appeal, visit teamhope.ie.