5 Simple Steps to Shoebox Success

It's Easy to Turn an Empty Shoebox into a Beautiful Gift!

1. Decorate your empty Shoebox

  • Please wrap the top and bottom of the Shoebox separately. If you have trouble, watch a tutorial.
  • Don’t have enough empty Shoeboxes lying around?  Consider picking up decorative boxes from a dollar store or craft store.
  • Please use standard sized Shoeboxes, not oversized boot boxes or child-sized boxes. We want everyone to receive a gift similar in size and value.
  • Use good quality paper and avoid using bows and intricate ribbon, as boxes are usually stacked on top of one another and undergo some degree of wear and tear during transport
Tip: Shoeboxes that come in two-pieces are much easier to wrap then the one-piece boxes with lids that fold over.

2. Fill your Shoebox

  • Each Shoebox must be valued at approximately $50 – see our suggested items!
  • Consider lining the Shoeboxes with tissue paper first for a more polished, elegant look
  • Do not overstuff your box; make sure the lid fits on properly and doesn’t pop off
  • Avoid including items that are overly delicate to avoid anything getting broken in transit
​Tip: The high quality of our gifts is an important element that sets The Shoebox Project apart from other donations the shelters receive throughout the year. Select only items that you would like to receive as a gift or items that you might purchase for a relative or a close friend!
Suggested Items to Include:
  • Something warm: socks, mitts, scarf, hat, hand warmers, specialty teas
  • Something sweet: nut-free chocolate and candy (not alcohol-filled)
  • Body or hand lotion, soaps, toothbrush, toothpaste
  • Brush, comb, shampoo, conditioner
  • Nail polish, mascara, eye shadow, lipstick, lip balm
  • Shower gel
  • Purse-sized Kleenex, small cosmetic bag
  • Gift cards (Tim Hortons, Shoppers, McDonalds, etc.)
    • Please write the amount on the card or include the receipt
  • Bus tickets
  • Journals, colouring books, pens, coloured pencils
  • Earrings, bracelet
  • Supportive message
Please do NOT Include:
  • Used goods and hotel sample size body products are not the right Shoebox gift items to make someone feel special; however, your local shelter would be pleased to receive these items directly from you throughout the year.
  • Sized clothing (i.e. S, M, L, XL) should not be included because beautiful women come in all different sizes
  • Mouthwash containing alcohol
  • Bubble bath or bath bombs are not useful for shelter clients; however, body wash for the shower is a great gift
  • Candles
  • Foundations or concealers should not be included because each person has a unique skin tone
  • Hand-sanitizers containing alcohol
  • Razors
  • Jumbo-sized containers
  • Books
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Anything opened or not packaged

3. Write an Inspirational Message

Women who receive a gift from The Shoebox Project are touched by the effort that goes into decorating the Shoebox as well as the special cards, messages, and poems contained inside. Get creative and have fun!
Tip: Check our Instagram or Facebook for inspiration!

4. Drop it off


Please check here for drop-off details.  Make sure to find out if there is a deadline!

Please note that we do not issue charitable tax receipts for donations of Shoebox gifts.

5. Don't forget to share!

It’s fun to share photos of your Shoebox
      or your Shoebox-making party on
      social media. Remember to use the hashtag #JustGiveLove.