We can’t tell every story behind the Link to Hope Shoebox Appeal, but we can share a few that capture its heart. These are just a few of our Shoebox Appeal Stories, Our shoeboxes support families and elderly people facing poverty and isolation, offering practical help, dignity, and hope when it’s needed most.

A Story of Hope, Gratitude, and New Beginnings

The first of our Shoebox Appeal stories is this remarkable family who are raising nine wonderful children in very challenging circumstances. One of the children lives with a disability, and the family reached out to us for help with a much-needed stroller to support their daily life.

This past summer, the family experienced a moment of profound tragedy and hope. One of the children, Iacov — pictured in the yellow jacket — suffered a serious accident when he fell into a sewer and drowned. Rescue services took two hours to arrive, followed by a long journey to the hospital. During that time, everyone present, including his mother, believed that Iacov had died.

In what the family describes as a miracle, Iacov came back to life just as the rescue vehicle was entering the hospital gates. This extraordinary experience deeply impacted the family, and despite their ongoing social and financial struggles, it led the mother to grow closer to God and find renewed strength and faith.

This was the first time the family had ever received such a rich and diverse shoebox. The children were overwhelmed with joy, carefully making sure that each child took only their share, showing remarkable respect and gratitude. These gifts will provide meaningful help and encouragement to the family for some time to come.