The Campbell River Shoebox Project is preparing to bring comfort and encouragement to women facing homelessness or housing insecurity during the holiday season.

This year’s campaign, titled “Together, We Build Hope,” begins Thursday, November 12, and continues through December 9.

Organizers hope to collect 530 shoeboxes for women in Campbell River and another 100 for women in Port Hardy and elsewhere on the North Island.

Each shoebox should contain approximately $50 worth of useful and comforting items. Suggested gifts include body lotion, deodorant, hand cream, warm socks, gloves, a hat and a small treat.

Donors are also encouraged to include a personal note of support and a $10 gift card for a grocery store or drugstore.

Volunteers will inspect each shoebox before the gifts are distributed through local shelters and community agencies.

Campbell River donations can be dropped off at Coastal Community Credit Union in Discovery Harbour, La Tee Da Lingerie, Classy Katz Consignment or Mattone Italian Kitchen.

North Island donations can be delivered to the North Island Crisis and Counselling Centre Society in Port Hardy.

The participating locations will also accept individual grocery or drugstore gift cards valued between $10 and $50.

Last year, the local campaign collected more than $31,000 worth of gifts, including 560 shoeboxes for Campbell River and 69 for Port Hardy and the North Island.

People can also support the campaign by organizing a collection drive through their workplace, school or community organization—or by making a financial contribution online.

Further details, including packing guidelines and drop-off information, are available at Campbell River Shoebox Project.