Dame Judi Dench Urges Thoughtful Giving This Christmas in ShelterBox Charity Film

A Heartfelt Appeal from a National Treasure

Dame Judi Dench has teamed up with ShelterBox, an international disaster relief charity, to highlight the importance of meaningful gift-giving this Christmas. In a playful 30-second film, Judi charms viewers with her wit while promoting ShelterBox’s virtual gifts, which support families affected by disaster and conflict.

The film shows Judi sneaking down early on Christmas morning to open her presents. However, the gifts – including skimpy red underwear she dismisses with the quip “red is not my colour” – fall short of expectations. Her light-hearted reactions deliver a powerful message: instead of giving unwanted presents, why not choose gifts that make a real difference?

Supporting Families in Crisis

ShelterBox, a charity based in Truro, Cornwall, provides emergency shelter and essential items to families whose homes have been destroyed by disasters. From tents and thermal blankets to cooking sets and water filters, these life-changing supplies offer practical relief to families in desperate need.

“That’s what I love about ShelterBox. Aid items like tents, thermal blankets, and water filters are tangible. They make a difference,” Judi says.

Founded in 2000, ShelterBox has supported more than three million people worldwide and operates through 13 affiliate organisations. The charity’s operational headquarters remain in Cornwall, where their global relief efforts are coordinated. Since 2012, ShelterBox has been Rotary International’s project partner in disaster relief.

Kirsty Alexander, Head of Supporter Engagement at ShelterBox, highlights the impact of their virtual gifts: “A ShelterBox virtual gift can help give others around the world a sense of home too. We’re incredibly lucky that Dame Judi has supported ShelterBox for many years, and was such a good sport in helping us make this little film. It’s been a joy to work with her on a project that combines humour with a heartfelt message.”

A Growing Global Need

ShelterBox is currently responding to crises across the globe, including providing emergency shelter in Gaza and supporting displaced people in locations such as the Philippines, Lebanon, Mozambique, Somalia, Chad, Cameroon, and Yemen.

“The number of people uprooted from their homes worldwide has never been higher, and the need for emergency shelter has never been more urgent,” Judi adds.

With over 120 million people displaced worldwide, ShelterBox’s work is more critical than ever.

How You Can Help

By purchasing a ShelterBox virtual gift, supporters can provide life-saving aid to those in need while sharing the true spirit of Christmas with their loved ones. Buyers can also present a gift certificate to show the meaningful impact of their contribution.

Learn more about ShelterBox’s work and how to support their cause by visiting shelterbox.org.