A SHOEBOX appeal is being run by three Stockton care homes ahead of Christmas – traditionally the loneliest time of year for elderly people.
The Beeches, Ingleby and Mandale House Care Homes are collecting shoeboxes and gifts for the elderly and vulnerable across Teesside.
A Christmas appeal is being run by the homes’ local Tesco store, on Durham Road, asking shoppers to make donations from a list of items.
More than 200 shoeboxes have been donated from Wynsors World of Shoes in Stockton.
The homes plan to distribute the gifts to those who will be spending the festive holidays alone.
Liz Jones, Customers Relations Officer at Hill Care, said: “Each year, our homes across Teesside welcome elderly and vulnerable members of the community in on Christmas day.
“We aim to give them a hot meal and company on what is traditionally the loneliest day of the year for many. However, places are always limited.
“So this year, the homes wanted to go a step further, by distributed gifts to those who are unable to make it to the homes on the day.
“A gift of food, warm clothing, and other treats can make a massive difference to someone in your community at Christmas. We are appealing for donations to help fill the shoeboxes.”
Anyone interested in donating to the shoebox appeal can drop items off at any of the three Hill Care homes:
- The Beeches Care Home, Green Lane, Newtown
- Ingleby Care Home, Lamb Lane, Ingleby Barwick
- Mandale House Care Home, 136 Acklam Road, Thornaby
The homes are also appealing for shoeboxes, wrapping paper and volunteers to help wrap the gifts.