Teams4U Volunteers Bring Hope to Bosnia Through Shoebox Distribution

December saw a dedicated Teams4U volunteer team travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina to distribute Shoeboxes of Love alongside our trusted partners at the Red Cross. The trip was filled with powerful moments, heartfelt encounters, and a reminder of the long-lasting impact that a simple shoebox can have.

Reaching Children and Communities

The team spent time delivering shoeboxes in communities including Breza and Ilijaš, meeting children, families, teachers, and community members who welcomed them with warmth and gratitude. For many children, the shoebox they received was more than a gift — it was a reminder that someone cares.

Visiting Schools, Nurseries and Disability Centres

As part of the distribution, the team visited a number of schools and nurseries, where children eagerly received their shoeboxes. The joy and excitement in these settings was unmistakable, with many children opening their boxes together, sharing smiles, laughter, and curiosity at what was inside.

In addition to schools, the team also spent time at centres supporting adults with disabilities. These visits highlighted the importance of inclusion and dignity, with shoeboxes and home boxes offering both practical support and a message that each person is valued and remembered.

Meeting staff and carers at these centres reinforced how vital community-based support is, and how small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in everyday life.

One of the volunteers, Lottie Conway, shared:

“It was incredible to see all the children’s reactions.”

Seeing the Legacy of the Shoebox Appeal

Throughout the trip, many teachers and people the team met shared moving stories of their own childhoods. Several explained that they themselves had received shoeboxes years ago and spoke openly about the impact it had on them at the time.

They expressed how much it meant to see that children are still sending shoeboxes all these years later — a powerful reminder that kindness continues across generations and borders.

Witnessing the Lasting Impact of the 1990s War

During the trip, the team also visited areas deeply affected by the war in the 1990s, gaining a greater understanding of the country’s recent history and the challenges many communities still face today.

One particularly moving visit was to the tunnels beneath the airport runway, which were used during the war to transport supplies and support those trapped during the siege. Standing in these tunnels was a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Bosnian people and the realities of conflict that are still very present in living memory.

Although decades have passed, the effects of the war can still be felt across many communities. Seeing this first hand gave the volunteers a deeper appreciation of why ongoing support, compassion, and practical help remain so important.

Delivering Home Boxes in the Community

In addition to children’s shoeboxes, the team also helped deliver Home Boxes to families in need within the community. These boxes provide essential household items and practical support to those facing hardship.

Volunteer Claire Nolan reflected on one particularly meaningful visit:

“Certainly an eye opener, and the reality of the difference the home boxes make… that wife in the home was so grateful for every single item!”

Memories That Will Last a Lifetime

The trip was not only impactful for those receiving support, but also deeply meaningful for the volunteers themselves. Pauline shared:

“Had such a great time and have memories that will be with me for a long long time, not just of the children but of all you wonderful people we shared these special moments together with!”

Thank You

This Bosnia trip would not have been possible without the generosity of everyone who packed a shoebox, supported the appeal, volunteered their time, or prayed for the team. Together, you helped bring hope, dignity, and joy to children and families who needed it most.

Thank you for being part of the Shoebox of Hope journey.