March 19th, 2026.



The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for over 200 years, and because the charity survives on the generosity of the public, fundraising collection boxes have played a vital part in that mission.

Over the years, the RNLI has introduced some iconic versions of these money boxes, from rectangular wooden and brass designs dating back to the 1860s, to the much-loved tin and later plastic lifeboat-shaped boxes from the 20th and early 21st century. It is these boat-shaped boxes that are especially good for bringing in donations, according to Carol and Pete Shewell, Fundraising Team Leaders at Newhaven lifeboat station, which has prompted them and their team of volunteers, to launch a plea for the return of these lost collection boxes.

Carol says: "When a pub or other business that once hosted an RNLI collection box closes down, these historic money boxes often get put somewhere and forgotten about.

"We’re asking members of the public to check their attics or other storage spaces to see if they can find them, especially the older lifeboat-shaped boxes, as people love to donate money into those and we can find new homes for them. They’re such iconic designs and play a vital part in our fundraising plan."

Newhaven RNLI, which boasted one of the strongest performing fundraising teams in the UK last year, raised almost £4,000 from collection boxes alone in 2025, up £150 from the year before, and they would love to top that number in 2026.

Along with fixed collection boxes in pubs and other businesses, and the gift shop at the lifeboat station  on the West Quay, the fundraising team will be hosting a variety of events throughout the year, including an Easter Family Fun Day on the 28th of March, and the Summer Fayre on the 4th of July, which is the team’s biggest event of the year.

If any members of the public have a collection box that is not in use, thay are asked to drop it in to the RNLI gift shop at Newhaven.


Image copyright: RNLI