These frequently addressed items ARE allowed in shoebox gifts:
playing cards
batteries (in original packaging or with both ends taped)
wet wipes or plain alcohol wipes
toy spiders/bugs/snakes
superheroes or other licensed characters
items with company logos
all types of scissors
squirt guns (that don’t look like real guns)
glow sticks
compact mirrors
lip balm (non-medicated)
play dough (store bought)
solid stick deodorant
makeup (non-liquid)
adhesive bandages (non-medicated)
disposable or reusable feminine hygiene products
eating utensils
marbles
Bibles or other religious literature or symbols
These frequently addressed items ARE NOT allowed in shoebox gifts:
Vaseline®
scary items (things that will frighten a child rather than bring joy)
war-related items (such as toy soldiers, military vehicles, or wearable camouflage)
liquid paint sets or liquid glue
rubber balls with liquid filling
liquid lip gloss
matches or fire starters
seeds
sand/rocks/shells gathered from nature
all types of food, candy, or gum
medications or vitamins
toothpaste
nail polish
money or play money
baby powder
baking soda
razors
liquids or lotions
breakable items or glass containers
aerosol cans
used clothing or toys
These frequently addressed items may or may not be allowed in shoebox gifts:
Camouflage or Military-related Items: Wearable traditional camouflage is not allowed; pink or bright colored camouflage is ok. Camouflage pencils or other non-wearable items are likely fine to include. The words “Army,” “Navy,” etc. are also acceptable when not part of a wearable camouflage item or military-related toy.
Tool Kits; Multi-tools (No Blades): Most tools are fine with the exception of knives, saws, or razor blades. Hammers, nails, screwdrivers, etc. are all fine.
Seashells: Store-bought items such as jewelry, picture frames, or other décor that include shells should be fine to include. Seashells that were personally collected from nature are not allowed.
Soap: At this time, there are no specific requirements for packing bar soap. However, bar soap is an item of increasing regulatory concern. It’s best to keep soap in original packaging with an expiration date of at least 6 months after National Collection Week. For the same reason, homemade bar soap is discouraged; however, bar soap will not be removed from your shoebox gifts regardless of what kind it is or how it is packed.
Homemade Maracas or Bean Bags: Any homemade items with filling MUST have synthetic filling such as plastic beads or pellets. Rice, beans, rocks, aquarium gravel, wood pellets, etc. are not allowed. A note regarding filling can be included for clarification during processing.
Any further questions regarding a specific item may be e-mailed to occinfo@samaritan.org
Brookhaven Academy