Eagle-eyed readers studying the photo used to illustrate our story of this year’s Shoebox Appeal in last week’s Chapter spotted that it appeared to contain items not usually permitted as donations.
And they were quite correct to point this out. Certain items, such as aerosols, bottles and sprays are not allowed, while many other items are.
Samaritan’s Purse, the organisation behind Operation Christmas Child, more commonly known as the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, suggest several items to include in donations, which will be gifted to less fortunate children across the world at Christmas time.
All items should be new and can include toys, such as a doll or cuddly toy, toy trucks, skipping ropes, yo-yos, puzzles and musical instruments.
School supplies are also greatly sought after as well as helping with a child’s education. Items such as pens, colouring pencils, sharpeners, erasers, writing pads and solar calculators are highly prized.
Hygiene items are also valued and provide a vital role in the health of youngsters. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, bars of soap, combs, hairbrushes and flannels will be gratefully received. More gift suggestions are available at samaritans-purse.org.uk/occ.
Used or damaged items, war related items such as toy guns and military figures, hand-made knitted and stuffed toys, anything political or religious, or anything fragile are among the items not to be included.
A local group, in conjunction with the Methodist Church, is organising the Ferryhill and surrounding area appeal. Filled shoeboxes can be taken along to the church from Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th November, from 5pm to 6.30pm.
Goods to go in the boxes or donations towards transport costs will also be gratefully received.
For more information, or advice on what can and can’t be included, contact Mrs Wilson on 01388 720571. A Dedication Service will be held on Sunday 19th November at 6pm, when the boxes will be blessed and sent on their way.
A spokesperson for the shoebox team commented: “Once again, we are hoping for a very successful year for this very worthy cause. We give you a very warm welcome.”
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
