Every Christmas for the last seven years, the Christmas Shoes Project in Albania has touched the lives of thousands of children by offering the gift of a new pair of shoes. When we launched this initiative at Media 7, we could not have foreseen how God would use it to bring communities together. Faithful listeners, local churches, and international partners have united with a shared mission: to spread joy, restore dignity, and share the love of Christ with underprivileged families across the country.

In Albania, many children face daily hardships due to poverty, with inadequate footwear being a common issue. The Christmas Shoes Project addresses this need while creating opportunities for communities to experience the true meaning of Christmas—love, generosity, and hope.

Last December, the project reached hundreds of children from both rural and urban areas. Volunteers, church members, and community leaders came together to distribute shoes in schools, community centers, and churches. Each child received not only a pair of sturdy, new shoes but also a heartfelt message about the love of Jesus.

“For many of these children, this is their first pair of brand-new shoes,” shared Sana, a volunteer from Tirana. “It’s more than just a gift; it’s a reminder that they are cared for and valued.”

The project’s impact extends beyond the physical gift of shoes. Families often share how this simple gesture brings encouragement and hope during a challenging time of year.
Liri, a mother of three from a village near Shkodër, said, “My children look forward to this every year. It’s not just the shoes; it’s the joy and kindness that come with them. It reminds us that we are not alone.”
This year, as we continue collecting shoes from our listeners, we plan to visit some of the poorest areas in northern Albania, where missionaries have often encountered children without proper footwear during the winter season. These children travel for hours each day to reach their schools, often trekking through muddy and challenging paths ill-suited for their small feet.

The success of the Christmas Shoes Project is a testament to the power of collaboration. Donations from local businesses, churches, and international supporters make this initiative possible. Volunteers dedicate their time to ensure that every pair of shoes finds its way to a child in need. The initiative has even inspired churches in other cities to unite and advocate for the needy within their communities.

“This project is a beautiful example of God’s love in action,” said Pastor Edmond of a local church in Durrës. “It unites people from all walks of life to serve those who need it most.”

As the Christmas Shoes Project continues to grow, the vision remains the same: to meet the physical needs of children while sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Each year brings new opportunities to expand its reach and touch more lives, ensuring that the message of hope and love shines brightly during the holiday season.

The Christmas Shoes Project is not just about shoes; it’s about walking alongside communities in love and faith. As one child shared, “These shoes make me feel special. It’s like a gift from
Jesus Himself.”