We’re all very familiar with the creation of shoeboxes for Christmas, but now a Ringwood based organisation is inviting people to put together packages for the spring.

MHA Communities New Forest, which supports 160 isolated older people living independently, has launched its Spring Box Appeal.

During the pandemic the organisation’s work has involved telephone befriending, shopping, prescription collections and social distance walks (when possible).

Last Christmas, an especially difficult time for many older people living on their own, MHA spent time creating gift bags for their local members. With lockdown continuing, they are looking to provide a ‘Spring Box’ to provide cheer and support the older community across the New Forest.

You will need a shoe box, or similar size box.

Examples of what you could include are: crossword/word search books, colouring books, crayons, appropriate craft/art/knitting/sewing materials with instructions for a small craft project, toiletries, chocolate and ‘long life‘ treats and a handmade gift. No perishables please.

To join the MHA Spring Box Appeal, please send your packaged up box to MHA Communities New Forest, 6 Fridays Court, High Street, Ringwood.  BH24 1AB by 22 March to make sure they can deliver to the local community in time for spring.

Katie Rickman, scheme manager can be contacted on 07720 680953. She will co-ordinate Spring Box social distance deliveries and collections.