At Crosscause, we believe every child deserves a little joy at Christmas, no matter their circumstances. This year, 2025, as part of our ongoing Winter Aid Truck initiative, our Christmas Shoebox Appeal once again invites communities, schools, and individuals to help bring smiles to children in need in Romania and Ukraine.

Each Christmas, we collect shoeboxes filled with essentials, toys, and small gifts for orphans, children with disabilities, and those affected by conflict. For many, these shoeboxes are the only presents they will receive — which makes your contribution truly special.

With your support this year, we can share comfort, joy, and a touch of Christmas magic with children who need it most.

To join our Christmas Shoebox Appeal, simply follow these steps:

1. Contact Us – Reach out via email at info@crosscause.ie or call us at  087 450 3886 or  087 967 4829. Once you get in touch, we’ll send you all the necessary promotional materials, including posters and letters, to help you get started.
2. Prepare Your Shoeboxes – Fill your shoeboxes with gifts and essentials for children aged 2-14, label them for a boy or girl, and make them festive!
3. Meet the Deadline – The deadline for delivering or collecting shoeboxes is critical. You must ensure that your shoeboxes are ready by the agreed-upon date, as our transport will be leaving the very next morning, and we won’t be able to collect any boxes after this day.
4. Drop-off or Collection – We would greatly appreciate it if you could deliver your shoeboxes to our headquarters at Crosscause, Blackrock, Co. Louth, A91PXA7. However, if this isn’t possible, don’t worry – we’ll arrange to collect them from you.

By joining the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, you’re giving more than just gifts. You’re offering hope and showing children that someone cares, even from miles away. Every box makes a meaningful impact, bringing a smile to a child’s face during what can be a difficult time.

Unlike many other charities, Crosscause does not request any additional donation per shoebox to cover transportation or delivery costs. This is because our Christmas Shoebox Appeal is part of our larger Winter Aid Truck project, and all associated costs are already covered.

For over 10 years, Crosscause has been sending aid to Romania as part of the Winter Aid Truck project, and the Christmas Shoebox Appeal is an important part of this effort. Our volunteers in Romania, led by Ionel Malinte, ensure that every shoebox reaches its intended destination. You can rest assured that your kindness will brighten a child’s Christmas morning.

• Join One of Our Projects:
  Take part in any of our ongoing Crosscause initiatives — the Winter Aid Truck Project, the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, or our new Winter Handbag Project. Each one helps bring comfort and hope to those who need it most.
• Spread the Word:
  Tell your friends, neighbours, or local groups — especially older people who might enjoy taking part. The more people involved, the more lives we can touch.
• Volunteer or Support:
  Help us with sorting, packing, or transport as part of the Winter Aid Truck. Every extra hand makes a difference.
• Make a Donation: If you’re unable to create a shoebox or a handbag, you can still support our mission by making a donation towards our Winter Aid Truck project.