Operation Christmas Child

www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk


I’m delighted to say that we are planning another of our Operation Christmas Child (OCC) shoebox appeals here at Emmanuel, Billericay. I’ve been greatly encouraged by the way schools, churches and community groups have supported OCC since 2008 – nearly 8,000 shoeboxes have passed through Emmanuel since then many more were filled ‘online’ and sent directly from OCC headquarters during lockdown.


Can I say thank you, on behalf of OCC and the children, young people and families who receive your gifts, for your continued support.


OCC is the largest children’s charity in the world and shoeboxes have been delivered to 160 countries – and counting. Since 1990, over 186 million children and young people, worldwide, have been able to receive a Christmas gift that they would not have received because they live in extreme poverty, or are orphaned or the victims of war.


Sending a shoebox is a very practical way of showing love to others and I know, from first hand experience, the difference a simple gift makes to children, young people, families and whole communities.


Might I please ask if you and your family, your place of work, school, club, group, organisation or business might be able to collect the following items for the shoebox appeal?


Something Fun: Small Football; Dominoes; Whistles; Toy Car; Harmonica; Wind up torch.

Something To Love: Cuddly Toy; Teddies; Barbie Doll; Finger Puppet; Wind Up Toy; Cars.

Something Creative: Chalk; Crayons; Colouring Books; Play Doh; Small Sewing Kit.

Something To Keep Clean: Toothbrushes; Soap (Wrapped); Flannels; Combs; Brushes.

Something To Put On: Hats; Scarves; Gloves; Head Bands; Small Bag.

Something To Learn With: Pens; Pencils; Sharpeners; Paper; Ink Stamp Sets; Solar Calculator.

Something Homemade: Letter/Card or Photograph from the person/group who fill the shoebox.

Something To Put Your Items In: A shoebox wrapped in Christmas Paper.

Something For Postage: Each shoebox costs £5 to deliver.



Somethings NOT to include: Sweets of any kind; Toothpaste (both of these are due to stringent import restrictions in some countries); Damaged items; War related toys; Anything of a Political or Racial nature; Sharp objects; Glass or Fragile items; Liquids; Playing Cards of the 4-suit variety. Items packed from this list will be removed from shoeboxes.


It’s so simple to get involved with OCC and I know how much pleasure many people in Billericay receive from: collecting the above items; knitting scarves and hats; and putting a shoebox together. Your contribution, however small, is greatly appreciated.


We also invite you to our ‘Shoebox Celebration Service’ in November at 10.30 am.