OVER 15,000 shoeboxes were shipped from Westbury before Christmas for Operation Christmas Child, who send shoeboxes full of presents to impoverished children around the world.
The collection is run by relief charity Samaritan’s Purse each year giving presents to millions of children who would usually receive nothing over the festive holidays.
The shoeboxes were collected at a warehouse in Westbury and shipped to countries such as Iberia, Romania and Belarus.
Area co-ordinator for Wiltshire Steve Lloyd said, “There was an amazing response this year, a huge thanks to those who have donated, helped with packing and checking.
“It feels like we have been here a long time collecting but it has been great. We have had loads of support from schools and clubs who have put in time and effort to make sure the kids get something for Christmas. Even the forklift drivers and those who empty the bins, a big thank you!
“We couldn’t keep doing this each year without people’s generosity and it’s great to see that it continues each year.”
