The Shoebox Project for Shelters

Overview

The Shoebox Project for Shelters, also known as Opération boîte à chaussures pour refuges, is a Canadian registered charity, featuring a unique identifier of 833095045RR0001. The organization is based in Toronto, Ontario, and operates nationally supported by Dream. Its mission is to uplift and empower women who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness by distributing gift-filled shoeboxes.

History

The Shoebox Project was founded in 2011 by Caroline Mulroney Lapham, Jessica Mulroney, Katy Mulroney, and Vanessa Mulroney. Initially, the goal was to collect 156 shoeboxes for the Red Door Family Shelter in Toronto. However, the founders surpassed this goal, collecting and distributing over 400 shoeboxes to four local shelters that year. This initiative was inspired by Jessica's mother, who had collected donations for shelters in Montreal.

Activities

The Project collects and distributes shoeboxes filled with essential and small luxury items to women in shelters and outreach centers across Canada and the United States. Local drives are typically active around various holidays, including International Women's Day, Mother's Day, and Christmas. The Shoebox Project serves to remind women experiencing homelessness that they are valued and cared for by their communities.

Expansion

From its initial success in Toronto, The Shoebox Project has expanded to operate more than 35 chapters across the U.S. and Canada. Locations include major cities such as San Francisco, New York City, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa. The number of shoeboxes distributed has grown significantly over the years, reaching nearly 25,000 shoeboxes delivered to 135 communities in 2015.

Mission

The organization's mission is to foster safe, supportive, and inclusive communities by facilitating compassionate gestures between supporters and local women experiencing homelessness. It aims to share empathy, kindness, and compassion through these gift-filled shoeboxes and messages of support, reminding women of their worth and value during difficult times.