A Gift That Never Fades: Sharing Christmas Joy Through Shoeboxes
Twenty-five years ago, when Signe was a child in Latvia, her family lost everything in a series of devastating fires. That Christmas felt like it would be a bleak one, but out of nowhere, three shoeboxes full of special goodies and toys arrived at their doorstep.
“My brother was mad at me because I took the wrong box at first,” Signe laughed, remembering that moment. “There were crayons, markers, and a teddy bear, but I specifically remember the candy canes. We’d never seen anything like that in Latvia before.”
The shoeboxes came from Philadelphia, USA, a glimmer of hope sent across continents. The family treasured them, and even though they couldn’t send a response, the memory of that kindness has stayed with Signe.
Fast forward 15 years. Signe and her husband, Marcin, moved to Newbridge, Ireland, and one day, while passing a window display, Signe saw posters for the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal. The images instantly transported her back to her childhood, and a desire to pay it forward was ignited. She knew she had to get involved.
Spreading Smiles, One Box at a Time
Team Hope is a remarkable organization that delivers shoeboxes filled with essential items and toys to children in need across Africa and Eastern Europe.
Signe started by putting together 10 boxes for boys and 10 for girls each year. But this heartwarming effort soon became a family affair.
“My mother, Inga, has knitted over 250 teddy bears and probably 170 hats by now,” Signe shared with pride, highlighting the incredible effort her family puts into this selfless act.
This year marks Signe’s fourth year volunteering at the local checking center in Newbridge. Each year, the location changes to a temporary space, reflecting the vast and organized effort happening across the country. “There are 50 centers all over Ireland, it’s a big, big thing,” Signe said.
Her daughter, nine-year-old Nicole, has also become an active participant in the process. “She loves coming to the checking center, loves to get inspiration from the boxes, to see what we can put in them next year. ” Signe said, grinning. Nicole, who helped decorate Newbridge for JuneFest earlier this year with yarn bombing, clearly has a knack for spreading joy through creative acts.
Signe sees the impact these shoeboxes have, not just on the children who receive them but also on her own family.
“I know exactly how those kids feel,” she said. “The impact of one box – you remember it your whole life. It’s a blessing to
What types of items are most appropriate to include in a shoebox donation for Operation Christmas Child?
## A Gift That Never Fades: Sharing Christmas Joy Through Shoeboxes
**Interviewer:** Signe, thank you for joining us today. Your story is truly inspiring. Can you tell us about the impact those shoeboxes had on you and your family?
**Signe:** It was Christmas, and we had lost everything in a series of fires. It was a devastating time, and we were facing a bleak holiday season. Then, out of nowhere, these three shoeboxes arrived. It was like a miracle. Inside were crayons, markers, a teddy bear, and even candy canes – something we’d never seen in Latvia before. [[1](https://www.samaritanspurse.ca/pack-a-shoebox/)]
**Interviewer:** Those small gifts must have meant a great deal to you.
**Signe:** They meant the world to us. It wasn’t just about the material things, but the act of kindness, knowing someone cared enough to send us something special. It gave us hope when we needed it most. Even though we couldn’t reply, the memory of that kindness has stayed with me all these years.
**Interviewer:** Your experience inspired you to get involved with Operation Christmas Child, right?
**Signe:** Exactly! Knowing firsthand the impact a simple shoebox can have, I felt compelled to participate in this incredible program. It’s a beautiful way to spread joy and share the love of Christmas with children around the world who might otherwise go without.
**Interviewer:** For those who want to get involved, what are some things they can include in a shoebox?
**Signe:** Samaritan’s Purse Canada has a great guide on their website [[1](https://www.samaritanspurse.ca/pack-a-shoebox/)]. They suggest including things like toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and even special treats. The key is to pack items that are appropriate for a child’s age and gender.
**Interviewer:** So, a simple act of kindness can truly make a world of difference.
**Signe:** Absolutely! Every shoebox represents a message of hope and love. It’s a reminder that even in difficult times, there are people who care.
