It’s shoe-box time!!
For the last few years we have been taking part in Operation Christmas Child, in which people pack shoeboxes for children who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas. At Oasis, we do this via the German arm of the operation ‘Geschenke der Hoffnung’, which sends boxes to Eastern Europe.
Please join us in bringing ‘joy in a box’ to a child this Christmas.
How to pack a box …
1. Find an empty shoebox
This year for the first time, we have a number of flat-packed boxes, especially for those of you who dislike wrapping ordinary shoe boxes. Please let us know if you want one of these (available while stocks last!).
If you’re packing your own, the shoebox should ideally be medium sized (not for boots or small children’s shoes). Wrap the lid and the box separately in wrapping paper (before going on to insert your gifts).
2. Decide if your gift is for a boy or girl and for which age-group
There are three age groups: 2-4 years, 5-9 years and 10-14. Boy/girl stickers will be available from Oasis Kids. Tick the appropriate age box on the sticker provided and put it on the outside of the lid. Make sure the label is secure.
3. Fill your box with gifts
Throughout October, Oasis Kids will be running a little shop before and after church, so that you can buy suitable items at cost price. The shop can also give you ideas as to what kinds of things to buy in other places. (If you can’t afford to fill a box, please make a donation towards a box which we will pack). It is vital that only new and unused items are included. Please also ensure each box contains each of the following:
- Small items of winter clothing
- A small new cuddly toy and another age-appropriate toy (even older children appreciate the cuddly toy)
- Hygiene items – toothbrushes in original packing, toothpaste, soap in plastic bag, facecloth
- Sweets and chocolate – Please note, sweets cannot contain gelatine and chocolate must be plain milk, with no nuts, coconut, biscuit or any other fillings, due to customs restrictions
- School items – very important and needed for the 5-9 and 10-14 age groups
- A personal card or letter from you or your family.
- A donation of €6 to cover shipping
The biggest need for boxes is for boys in the age groups 2-4 and 10-14. There are often not enough boxes for them and they are given boxes for girls instead, for which they are still very grateful.
4. Drop off your shoebox at church
Ensure your shoebox is secured with a rubber band around the outside and bring to church. The deadline is Sunday 26 October, but you don’t need to wait till then – you can start right now!
PLEASE also try to encourage people at your workplace or school to take part in this appeal. This also gives you an opportunity to be open about your Christian faith.
See why we ask for €6 to cover the shipping:
Each year, we have increased the number of boxes collected, as you can see from this table.
Year |
Oasis |
Luxembourg |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 30 | – |
| 2009 | 39 | – |
| 2010 | 45 | 157 |
| 2011 | 58 | 220 |
| 2012 | 85 | 428 |
| 2013 | 111 | 740 |
Our target for this year is 800 in total!!
If you need any further advice or information about the collection here in Luxembourg, please contact Jessica Mills on kids@oasis.lu
For more information, please see the websites:
www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk / www.geschenke-der-hoffnung.org