More than 600 gift-wrapped shoeboxes full of goodies and care items will be given to people accessing mental health services this Christmas, as part of the Keith’s Closet Shoebox appeal.

The annual appeal, delivered by the Keith’s Closet service, will bring joy to mental health consumers, both in hospital and in the community, many of whom may be socially isolated.

For the first time, consumers in the Illawarra will be receiving the boxes as the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District mental health team is working closely with Keith’s Closet.

This year, the community was invited to donate a single shoebox wrapped in Christmas paper and filled with gifts and practical items, such as a toothbrush, shampoo and sunglasses, along with a hand-written Christmas message of encouragement and kindness.

Keith’s Closet is a not-for-profit charity that provides clothing and accessories to vulnerable individuals through walk-in wardrobe facilities in public hospitals, supporting those recovering from severe mental health challenges or mental illness.

Pioneered by Keith Donnelly, Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, the program has been running since 2019.

For more information visit Keith’s Closet.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“Christmas brings a lot of joy for many of us in the community, but it is important to remember that some people may be alone at this time of year.

"The generosity of the community will have a powerful impact on mental health consumers who might otherwise receive nothing at Christmas.

“I am so proud to be part of a community who cares and steps up and helps others.

“The Mental Health team in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District are excited to be working with Keith’s Closet on the Shoebox appeal and are looking forward to Keith delivering the shoeboxes. Thank you to all those people that volunteered or donated to make these wonderful gifts possible.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“This is a wonderful initiative, and I would also like to thank everyone who donated towards this appeal.

“Beyond giving a gift, reaching out to a person with a mental illness also helps reduce the stigma and can make a real difference, especially at this time of year.

"The Shoebox Appeal demonstrates to those living with mental illness that there are people in our community who are thinking of them and care. It really does capture the Christmas spirit."

Quotes attributable to Founder of Keith’s Closet Keith Donnelly:

“I am humbled by the volume of people who made the effort to purchase, pack, wrap and donate to the shoebox appeal this Christmas.

“Christmas can be a really tough time for people struggling with their mental health. These shoeboxes are a way to reach out to those who might be lonely or isolated at this time of year.”