A local gift-giving initiative is delivering some Christmas cheer to women living in area shelters or enrolled in outreach programs.

Lori Mazinke of Morris is spearheading an effort through The Shoebox Project in the region, with the goal of letting these women know that their community does care about them and that they are special and not forgotten. The project, which originated in Morris, is in its fourth year and has expanded into Altona and Winkler.

"There are a lot more women in the Pembina Valley suffering from abuse or mental illness than we even realize, that's why I got involved," said Mazinke.

On average about sixty or more boxes were donated in previous years with that number climbing a little every year.

"It's good because we have more to give, but sort of bad because that just means the needs of women in these situations is growing in our region," said Mazinke.

She explains the Shoebox Project is a great way to get a group of people involved, noting several boxes can be collected within a single office or business.

These shoeboxes are filled with $50 worth of items starting with basic necessities like Kleenex or a toothbrush.

"Gift Cards are usually the best because they allow women to buy something they might enjoy at a local store like Wal-Mart, McDonald's, and Tims," explained Mazinke.

Boxes can be dropped off at Morris Bigway, Cuts and Colors in Altona, and The Scrapbook Store in Winkler.