A Christmas charity is facing their largest demand to date after identifying over 3000 people in need this festive season.

The Shoebox Appeal works closely with charities to provide Christmas presents for vulnerable and disadvantaged adults throughout Sheffield, relying on the goodwill of the public to put the gifts together.

Christine Sexton, one of the main volunteers, said: “For most of these adults, this is the only Christmas present they will receive.

“Everyone deserves something at Christmas, and that’s why the shoebox appeal is so important. Some parents will go without to ensure their kids get a present, but we want to make sure they have something to open as well.”

The Shoebox Appeal started 11 years ago, and has grown to coordinate over 2,500 shoeboxes each year.

This year they are facing their largest demand yet, with over 3,000 boxes needed.

Mrs Sexton said: “We’ve noticed a large increase in charities needing shoeboxes in the past two years.

“It’s not a big surprise, we know there are more homeless people than ever on the streets, and more people in hostels and refuges so it makes sense that the demand is higher. But unfortunately, with factors like the cost of living crisis, there are less people being able to provide the shoeboxes.”

In an attempt to combat this issue, the appeal accepts loose items that are donated, making up shoeboxes from the miscellaneous items that people donate.

“The feedback from the charities is just amazing. People have been in tears, saying it’s the first Christmas present they’ve had in years. I’m glad I get to be a part of that,” Mrs Sexton said. 

“What we need now is people actually making up the boxes, it’s not possible without the goodwill of the public.”

There are 22 dropoff points throughout the city, and the full list of what can be donated in the shoeboxes can be found on their website https://www.sheffieldshoebox.com/ or on their Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sheffieldhomelessshoeboxappeal.