Wrexham’s MS & MP supporting Christmas Shoebox Appeal

People across Wrexham are being encouraged to support disadvantaged children around the world by taking part in this year’s Christmas Shoebox Appeal. 

Wrexham’s Member of the Senedd, Lesley Griffiths, a long-time supporter of Teams4U, recently visited their headquarters on the Llay Industrial Estate, along with Wrexham’s Member of Parliament, Andrew Ranger. 

Each year the charity runs a nationwide shoebox appeal to provide Christmas gifts to vulnerable children and families who are unlikely to receive any presents. 

People are asked to find an old shoebox, wrap it in Christmas paper and fill it with useful gifts.  Essential items include toys, educational supplies such as colouring books and pencils, and hygiene provisions such as toothbrushes and combs. 

When completed, the shoeboxes should be dropped off at the Teams4U warehouse in Llay before the deadline of Monday 2 December. 

Teams4U work alongside the British Red Cross to ensure the packages are handed out to some of the most disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, many of whom have fled the war in Ukraine.  Last year, Teams4U distributed 64,000 shoeboxes to those in need and any gifts donated that cannot travel abroad for whatever reason are given to local schools.

The famous shoebox gift concept was started in Wrexham over 30 years ago by Teams4U founder, Dave Cooke.

After her visit, Lesley Griffiths MS said: “The Shoebox Appeal is such a worthy cause and I am proud this local initiative continues to have such a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children across the world. 

“The work Dave, Simon and the team do is commendable.  The refugees who fled war-torn Ukraine are in desperate situations and the difference the shoeboxes make to the lives of children and parents cannot be overstated. 

“Ultimately, the key reason for the initiative’s prolonged success is due to the generosity of local residents and I hope people in Wrexham continue to help Teams4U spread joy to children who are living in some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable.” 

Andrew Ranger MP added: “I was delighted to join Lesley at Teams4U to support their fantastic Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

“The incredible work that Dave, Simon and the wider team do makes such a positive impact on children who are often extremely vulnerable, having fled Ukraine. The fact that they distributed 64,000 shoeboxes last year and are hoping to do the same this year, shows the generosity of the people of Wrexham and beyond.

“I donated my own shoebox to bring some Christmas joy to children and families and I look forward to hearing about the continued success of the appeal in 2025 and beyond.”