Small Box, Big Difference

The Box Appeal a charity campaign that aims to help those most in need by filling boxes with essential everyday items, is returning for its 5^th consecutive year. This year’s campaign will take place between the 1st of September and the 31^st of October. 

The Box Appeal is created and run by Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels in the Middle East and held in conjunction with the Red Crescent. The Box Appeal asks people to give back to those who need it most by filling a small box with a list of everyday items, such as toothpaste, a t-shirt, a cap and shaving cream.

Mark Willis, Area Vice President, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group said: “This appeal aims to make a small difference on a large scale. When the campaign was first created we teamed up with Helping Hands a local charity who advised us on the items that labourers need in their everyday lives. By giving them these items it puts less strain on them financially, what might seem like something small to us is of great importance to them. Also, it shows them that people care and appreciate what they do for us.”

To take part all participants have to do is pick up a box from any Radisson Blu or Park Inn Hotel in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah or Sharjah and fill it with the list of predetermined items and return it to the hotel.

“This is an easy way to give back to those less fortunate then ourselves, these men work long and hard to build the cities we live in. Any small contribution we can make to make their lives that little bit easier is really appreciated by them. This year we've already given out 11,000 boxes and if we receive each one of these back that means 11,000 labourers will be helped. It’s simple to get involved; we've seen children from the age of two filling boxes with their parents. It also doesn't have to be costly. The average price of the box is between 60-100 DHS on average,” said Mr Willis.

Since its launch in 2008, over 30,000 boxes have been donated, the equivalent of 3 million AED.

“Hundreds of staff take part but this year we’ve had an unprecedented response from the public, in particular schools who have so far taken more than 5,000 boxes. Local companies get involved as do many community groups and of course individuals. This year we have already given out 11,000 boxes in the UAE which is a record amount. So much so, that we’re currently having more boxes printed to meet demand,” explained Mr Willis.

Pick up a box from any Radisson Blu or Park Inn hotel in Dubai, Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Fujairah or Sharjah, fill it with the following list of items and return it by the 31^st October.

1. T-Shirt

2. Cap

3. Disposable Razor

4. Shaving Cream

5. Deodorant

6. Toothbrush

7. Toothpaste

8. Small Hand Towel

9. Comb

10. Soap Antibacterial

11. Shampoo

12. Talcum Powder