More than 290 shoeboxes have been donated for the homeless people in Bangor, with the aim of providing a gift they wouldn’t normally receive and containing essential items that will make a positive difference to their lives.
The response to the appeal has been so successful there will not only be enough shoeboxes for the homeless in Bangor but also across North Wales. Every shoebox given out before Christmas will also include a flyer invitation to the Christmas Day meal at Viridian Restaurant in Bangor.
This year the appeal teamed up with Will Joe Philpin/Fundraver who organised a Christmas Fun day at Bethesda Athletic FC, which also raised £618 for St Mary’s Hostel in Bangor.
Appeal organiser Lauren Toal said: “We all had a fantastic day and we’re joined by some very special guests – Queen Elsa (Princessa), Princess Anna (@Princessa), Cinderella (North Wales Princess and Superheros) and Snow White (North Wales Princess and Superheros).”
A stall was also held at Bangor University’s Student Christmas Market where they collected positive messages to be passed on to members of the homeless community.
Lauren added: “A massive thank you to everyone that supported this year’s shoebox appeal by hosting a collection point, spreading the word, helped me collect and most of all the biggest thank you to everyone that donated.
“While these appeals shouldn’t have to exist as no one should be homeless- the reality is they are very much needed. Thank you again for all of your overwhelming generosity and supporting the appeal each year.”
