United Way Of Greater Nashua Launches 2025 Shoebox Project For Seniors

NASHUA, NH — With the start of the new year, United Way of Greater Nashua is turning its focus to one of our most vulnerable populations: low-income, homebound seniors.

Across the United States, approximately 2 million older adults are homebound, often due to chronic illnesses, mobility challenges, or lack of access to transportation. Many face financial hardships, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities or small comforts that make daily life brighter.

Over the past seven years of the “Shoebox Project,” United Way of Greater Nashua has been able to provide support to more than 2,500 homebound seniors, making a meaningful impact in their lives. This year, we invite the community to join us once again to bring Valentine’s cheer to seniors served by Gateways Community Services, Meals on Wheels, AmeriCorps Senior Companions, and The Caregivers.

How You Can Help

Please purchase items from our wish list at tinyurl.com/UW-Shoebox or select from these suggested items:

• Exercise bands
• Puzzle books
• Healthy recipe books
• Note and greeting cards
• Stamps
• Magnifying glasses
• Pocket calendars
• Small stuffed animals
• Colored pencils and adult coloring books
• Combs and brushes
• Dental floss
• Facial tissue
• Hot chocolate, tea, and coffee bags
• Travel-size shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and hand cream

We aim to pack 500 kits this year, making this one of our largest collections! If your company, school, faith community, or group would like to host a donation box, let us know—we can provide fliers and a collection box.

Why This Matters

Homebound seniors are among the most isolated members of our community.

Research shows that isolation significantly impacts mental and physical health, contributing to higher risks of depression, anxiety, and other illnesses. By participating in the Shoebox Project, you can help bring much-needed comfort and connection to those who need it most.

Donation Details

All items should be dropped off or delivered to United Way of Greater Nashua at 20 Broad St. in Nashua. Donations are accepted weekdays between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and must be received no later than 4 p.m. on January 31.

Thank you for helping us make a difference in the lives of our seniors! Together, we can show our neighbors that they are not forgotten.

For more information, contact United Way at info@unitedwaynashua.org or 603-882-4011 or visit its website at unitedwaynashua.org.

Submitted by the United Way of Greater Nashua.