Father Gives Back 30 Years Later with Christmas Shoeboxes

URGENT UPDATE: A father-of-three is revitalizing the spirit of giving this holiday season by recreating the Christmas shoebox gift he received as a child, aimed at helping children living in poverty. Adas Rakauskas, 37, from Co Louth, Ireland, is calling on the nation to support Team Hope’s annual Christmas Shoebox Appeal, which marks its 15th year with an ambitious goal of delivering its three-millionth shoebox this Christmas.

Rakauskas, who grew up in Lithuania, experienced financial hardship firsthand. He recalled, “We didn’t have much food – or good food. Medically, we were all malnourished as children.” As a child, he received a shoebox filled with essential items, which transformed his holiday experience. “I remember gathering with other children in the village, excited to receive presents that meant someone cared,” he shared.

Now living in Drogheda with his wife Tracey and their children — Elias (9), Izabella (8), and Mikayla (6) — Rakauskas and his family are dedicated to giving back by preparing shoeboxes filled with toys and supplies for children in need. Each year, Team Hope delivers these gifts directly to children in countries across Africa and Eastern Europe, where they often represent the only festive gift received.

Team Hope is urging schools, businesses, and community organizations to join the initiative by contributing to this year’s appeal. The charity has already delivered over 2.8 million shoeboxes since its inception in 2010 and is on track to surpass the three million mark this holiday season.

Deborah Lowry, CEO of Team Hope, emphasized the significance of each shoebox, stating, “A simple shoebox, often packed by children for children, carries not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope.” She added, “That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten – that someone, somewhere cares.”

The Rakauskas family’s commitment to spreading joy highlights the impact of community action during the holiday season. “We want to share the joy we felt as children with those who need it most,” Rakauskas noted, urging others to join in this heartfelt mission.

As the Christmas season approaches, the call to action is clear: every shoebox can make a difference. For more information on how to participate, visit teamhope.ie and help make this Christmas special for children around the world.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as the appeal progresses.