Guide To Box Of Hope Hong Kong & Where To Get All You Need

What Is Box Of Hope?

Box of Hope is an initiative that originated in 2008 as a way for two mothers, Nicole Woodhouse and Harriet Cleverly, to teach their children about child poverty. It involves packing a box filled with gifts and essential items for children in need who lack the resources that other children have. What started as a small family project has now grown into a significant endeavor, with over 33,670 boxes collected in 2022.

The primary goal of Box of Hope is to bring joy to children facing challenging circumstances, particularly during the festive season when they may not typically receive gifts. Additionally, the initiative aims to raise awareness among schools and families about poverty and its impact on families living in extreme poverty.

In a society like Hong Kong, where the wealth gap continues to widen, it is crucial for children to understand and appreciate their own privileges while recognizing that not all children have the same opportunities. By engaging children in acts of giving and fostering empathy, Box of Hope strives to bridge this gap and promote a sense of compassion and understanding in the younger generation.

For more information about Box Of Hope, click here.

How To Make A Box Of Hope

To make a Box of Hope, follow these simple steps:

1. Find an empty shoe box or a reusable bag.
2. Decorate your box or bag to make it special.
3. Fill the box with gifts using the provided shopping list.
4. Complete the Box of Hope sticker and attach it to the box.
5. Drop off your box at one of the designated collection points (from November 6 to November 10, 2023) or your school.

Don't have a spare shoe box to hand? We heard that Dr Kong will happily give you their spare ones.

What Goes Into A Box Of Hope?

Every Box of Hope should include the following essential items. According to a 2021 survey, solid notebooks, coloring books, colored pencils, and games are highly desired gifts. If there's space in your box, you can add extra items. It's important to consider the age group when selecting products for your box.

Hygiene items:

• Toothbrush
• Large toothpaste
• Bar of soap
• Washcloth

These items can be sourced from any major supermarket in Hong Kong including Wellcome, ParknShop, and most 7-11s, as well as pharmacies.

Stationery:

• Notebook
• Pen/pencils
• Eraser
• Sharpener

Check out our guide for the best stationery stores in Hong Kong where you can get your Box Of Hope supplies.

Fun & Active Items (examples):

• Card game
• Ball & pump
• Skipping rope
• Frisbee
• Travel-size board game
• Play-doh
• Colouring book

Something to love:

• Cuddly toy
• Toy cars
• Jewellery (preferred by older recipients)
• Small wallet (preferred by older recipients)
• Doll

"Fun and Active Items" as well as "Something To Love" ones can all be sourced from toy stores in Hong Kong. Also, be sure to check out Toys Club which is currently and kindly offering 10% upon purchase when you buy your gifts from them - just mention Box Of Hope upon checkout.