Community called to support those often forgotten during the holidays

The Saint John Police have launched their 5th annual Holiday in a Box campaign, a community-wide effort to bring holiday cheer to adults in need. The initiative encourages residents to fill a shoebox with essential items that many of us take for granted.

Last year, the campaign successfully collected 600 boxes and 225 gift cards. This year, the police hope to rally even more support from the community. According to the official media release, the goal is to partner with Saint John residents, schools, sports teams, and local businesses.

“We are challenging Saint John residents, schools, sports teams, businesses, and community organizations to fill as many shoe boxes as possible,” said Police Chief R.M. Bruce. “This is a small and kind gesture of generosity for those adults who are often forgotten during the holiday season.”

Photo from the Saint John Police media release.

How You Can Help

Participating is simple. Find a shoebox or a similarly sized box and fill it with day-to-day essentials. Once collected, the boxes will be wrapped and distributed through five key community organizations:

• Crescent Valley Resource Centre
• Carleton Community Centre
• P.U.L.S.E. Inc. Saint John
• The ONE Change Inc.
• The Waterloo Village Neighbourhood Association

What to Include in Your Box

You can fill your box with a variety of new, unopened items. Some popular suggestions include toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, and soap. Warm items such as socks, gloves, and toques are also greatly appreciated. Bus passes and gift cards for groceries or coffee shops can also make a significant impact. For a complete list of ideas, you can visit the Saint John Police Force website.

Drop-off Information

You can drop off your completed holiday boxes at the Saint John Police headquarters, located at 1 Peel Plaza. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The final day to contribute to the campaign is December 15, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Holiday in a Box campaign?

It is an annual initiative led by the Saint John Police to collect shoeboxes filled with essential items and gifts for less fortunate adults in the community during the holiday season.

What are some ideas for what to put in a box?

Suggested items include toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant, socks, gloves, toques, bus passes, and small gift cards. It is important that all items are new and unopened.

Where and when can I drop off my donation?

You can drop off your box at the Saint John Police headquarters at 1 Peel Plaza. Drop-off hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

What is the final deadline for donations?

The campaign concludes on December 15, 2025.

Who receives the donated boxes?

The boxes are distributed to adults in need through five partner organizations: the Crescent Valley Resource Centre, Carleton Community Centre, P.U.L.S.E. Inc. Saint John, The ONE Change Inc., and The Waterloo Village Neighbourhood Association.