Support the ACM Christmas Shoe Box Appeal
For many people, Christmas is a season filled with warmth, family gatherings, and festive traditions. But for others - especially those who are feeling lonely, isolated, or experiencing difficulties - it can be a challenging time.
Across Wales, too many older people face Christmas feeling lonely and forgotten. While many of us enjoy bustling family gatherings, festive treats, and the excitement of gift-giving, some older people have no one to share the season with. They may live alone, be far from family, or struggle with health and mobility issues that make connecting with others difficult. For these individuals, the holiday season can be a stark reminder of isolation, with no gifts to open and few messages of goodwill to lift their spirits.
That’s why every year, we join forces with our colleagues at Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale, Age Connects Torfaen, and Care & Repair Cymru to reach out to the Welsh public and invite them to help make a real difference. Together, we run the Christmas Shoe Box Appeal- a simple but powerful way to spread warmth, kindness, and festive cheer to older people who may have no one else thinking of them this Christmas. Each gift-filled shoe box is more than just presents; it’s a message that someone cares, that they are remembered, and that they are valued.
How You Can Help
Taking part is easy and incredibly rewarding. We’re asking supporters to fill a wrapped shoe box with thoughtful, practical gifts that an older person would appreciate. Your gift doesn’t have to be expensive - just something chosen with care.
Items might include:
- Warm winter essentials like gloves, hats, scarves or cosy socks.
- Books, puzzles, or stationery.
- Shop-bought festive treats such as chocolates, mince pies, or small cakes.
- Toiletries such as hand cream or soap.
- And of course, a Christmas card with a warm handwritten message is always deeply appreciated.
Even the simplest items can bring comfort and joy, once you’ve chosen your gifts:
- Wrap the shoe box in festive paper (please wrap the lid and base separately, if possible).
- Label it to indicate whether the contents are suitable for a male, female, or generic recipient.
- Do not include personal information about yourself.
- Do not seal the box - instead, secure it with a rubber band so our team can check items before delivery.
Drop your off by Friday 12th December at Cynon Linc, Seymour Street, Aberdare CF44 7BD
If you aren't local to us you can find a wider list of drop-off points here.
Who Will Receive Your Gift?
Every shoe box donated will be delivered directly to an older person in RCT, Merthyr or Bridgend, who may not otherwise receive any gifts this Christmas.
Some of the people who might receive your box include:
- Someone living in a care home with few or no visitors.
- An older person receiving support from Age Connects Morgannwg.
- Someone we’ve identified as vulnerable, isolated, or at risk.
For many of these individuals, your box may be the only personal gift they open this Christmas. The difference it can make is profound.
Why Your Support Matters
Loneliness is a growing issue among older people in Wales. A simple act of kindness - a small box filled with warmth and festive cheer - can remind someone that they’re valued, cared for, and not forgotten. With your help, we can bring joy to hundreds of older people this Christmas.
Thank you for helping us spread kindness this Christmas.
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