A Simple Act, A Profound Impact: VML & Project Shoebox

The project aims to provide essential toiletries and cosmetics to women in vulnerable situations – those experiencing homelessness or poverty- celebrating International Women's Day. For many women, these "shoeboxes" filled with everyday items represent a moment of dignity, a reminder that they are seen, and a touch of joy in challenging times. VML Enterprise Solutions has been a leading partner of that initiative for nine years, and the 2025 edition has just ended.

Using our Day Room, ladies receive necessary cosmetics, but only basic ones and one for everyone. Today, they can have something of their own, exclusively and different from other ladies. The variety of scents and colorful packaging makes them feel special and grateful that someone still remembers them.

Zupa na Głównym Association

What began as a heartfelt effort by VML employees in Poznań, Poland, has become a significant support movement. Over the past nine years, Project Shoebox has transformed into a cross-border collaboration, with enthusiastic participation from VML colleagues from other EMEA offices.

Beyond VML's internal efforts, Project Shoebox has fostered a robust network of corporate partners across Poland. Businesses from various sectors have joined hands, contributing resources, products, and logistical support, underscoring a collective responsibility towards social welfare. The 2025 summary highlights the involvement of 50 partner companies, a clear indication of the project's growing influence and collaborative spirit.

The Project Shoebox 2025 Impact:

Meeting Needs: 1,895 women were identified as needing support, a 3% increase from the previous year.
Boxes of Hope: An incredible 2,194 shoeboxes were collected and distributed, an 8% rise, ensuring that needs were met and exceeded.
Organizations Supported: The project benefited 46 organizations, including shelters and support centers, with a 16% increase in reach.

These numbers, while impressive, only tell part of the story. The impact lies in the emotions and joy of those who received the boxes and the organizations facilitating their distribution. Thank you to every person and organisation, who made 2025 Project Shoebox truly special.

This is huge gratitude (...) Every product of this type is a huge emotion, a thank you. These are often expensive things... Cosmetics are products that don't appear often, and that's why it's so appreciated.