Shoebox Appeal for Jamaica 🇯🇲
Changing lives, one box at a time…
When Hurricane Melissa swept through Jamaica, it tore through homes, schools, and communities leaving families with nothing but heartbreak.
At Conscious Youth, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and loved no matter the circumstances. That’s why we’ve launched the Shoebox Appeal for Jamaica, in partnership with the Jamaica National Council Huddersfield (JNCH) to send boxes filled with essentials, treats, and hope directly to children affected by the storm.
Each shoebox is more than just a box it’s a message of love, comfort, and connection from our community to theirs. 💚
💡 How You Can Get Involved
STEP 1: Find a Box
Use an empty shoebox or small gift box (we’ll repackage it later).
STEP 2: Add a Note
Label it clearly with who it’s for:
→ Boy, Girl, or Unisex
→ Age group: 3–5, 6–11, 12–15, or 16–18
STEP 3: Fill It with Love
Add a thoughtful mix of essentials, small gifts, and treats (see list below).
STEP 4: Secure the Box
Close your box using an elastic band (no tape, please).
STEP 5: Drop It Off
📍 Hudawi Cultural Centre – Mon–Fri | 10am–5pm
📍 The Corner Hub, 5 Market Walk, Huddersfield – Fri | 12pm–8pm
🎁 What to Include
Choose a mix of items from the ideas below.
All items should be new or in excellent condition.
🧴 Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
🩲 Essentials: hairbrush/comb, hair ties, Small moisturiser or lip balm (sealed)
📚 School Supplies: pens, crayons, notebooks, puzzle books
🍬 Treats: sealed sweets or small snacks (non-meltable)
🧸 Toys & Gifts: small teddies, dolls, games, accessories
🎵 Fun Items: ball, toy car, or small instrument
💌 Note: a short message or drawing
⚠️ Please Don’t Include the Following
These items can delay or prevent your box being delivered through Jamaican customs:
🚫 Food or drink (except sealed sweets)
🚫 No clothing of any kind (including socks, underwear, or vests)
🚫 No liquids over 100ml, aerosols, or sharp objects
🚫 Medicines or vitamins
🚫 Sharp, breakable, or flammable items
🚫 Liquids, aerosols, or perfumes
🚫 Used books or novels
🚫 Counterfeit or inappropriate goods
💚 Can’t Pack a Box?
You can still make an impact. Donate online via GoFundMe and we’ll fill a box for you.
Every donation helps us rebuild hope one smile at a time.
❓ FAQ: Your Questions Answered
1️⃣ What size should my shoebox be?
Any regular-sized shoebox or small gift box works fine! Don’t worry we’ll repackage it into a clear box before shipping.
2️⃣ Can I include clothing or socks?
Unfortunately, no.
The Jamaican Government and customs authorities are currently not accepting any clothing items, even if new.
Please stick to small personal-care items, stationery, toys, and sealed sweets instead.
3️⃣ Can I wrap my box?
No need to wrap it. We’ll re-wrap for customs, but you can decorate the inside lid or include a small note or drawing if you like.
4️⃣ Can I include sanitary products?
Not inside shoeboxes, but you can donate them separately. We’ll send them through a dedicated hygiene package.
5️⃣ How long do I have to drop off my box?
We’re collecting boxes until 6th December 2025 to allow time for checking and shipping before Christmas.
6️⃣ Can I donate money instead?
Yes! Every £20 covers the cost of filling and shipping one shoebox.
👉 Donate here via GoFundMe.
7️⃣ What happens to my box once I drop it off?
All boxes are checked, re-packed, and shipped in collaboration with the Jamaica National Council Huddersfield (JNCH) to ensure safe delivery to children and families in need.
8️⃣ Can schools or organisations get involved?
Absolutely! If your school, business, or community group would like to collect boxes, please email [email protected] we’ll send you a toolkit and promotional materials.
