PREPARATIONS for this year’s Operation Christmas Child are under way and now is the perfect time to start gathering bits for your box!
The collection is run by relief charity Samaritan’s Purse, and sends thousands of shoeboxes full of presents to impoverished children around the world. Drop off points in Westbury are yet to be confirmed but are expected to be open between 1st-18th November.
Area co-ordinator for Wiltshire, Steve Lloyd said, “It’s never too soon to begin thinking about Operation Christmas Child. Now is a great time to start buying bits and bobs for your boxes, especially with the kids going back to school – there are lots of stationery on sale in lots of shops which is always a welcome gift for the children.”
Shoeboxes can be packed with a variety of toys, toiletries and clothes, but there are restrictions on what can be sent. Items that are damaged, war-related, contain glass or liquids, or are perishable must not be sent. A full guide can be found at www.samaritans-purse.org.uk