A record breaking 521 shoeboxes for refugees at Christmas

Our Youth Shoebox Project, led by Jackie Mayers (BMRSG) and Sue Campbell Ross (Able2)
celebrated an incredible milestone last Christmas. Not only did its tenth birthday bring another
record-breaking total of 521 boxes, but it also saw the return of Alana and Annabelle, the
two young women who had the original vision for the project in 2014. What a difference ten
years make! Both are now forging successful careers but took time out to help us get the
boxes on their way.

In 2014 we were blown away to get 221 boxes. Since then, each year has superseded the
last with a grand total of 3454 boxes of love and support going to young people from a
refugee and asylum seeker background. Just when you think the wonderful Blue Mountains
schools and community can’t get any more generous, they step up yet again. With almost all
schools in the mountains involved in some form or other over the last ten years our amazing
young people have mobilised each year to spread kindness and empathy.

We are particularly proud of the three students who have also gained university scholarships based
on their involvement in the project. BMRSG members were out in force to help us on
packing day too, as were a number of senior wrapping, knitting and sewing elves. Bravo!

With enormous thanks to everyone involved over the last decade who have helped us grow
the project from its small beginnings. Together we made a big difference.