It’s shoe-box time!!
As many readers will be aware, 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 and Asia.
We will be launching our appeal shortly in church, but here is a brief summary of what’s involved. More detailed information of what can and can’t go in the boxes will be available later in the month, as it changes slightly from year to year.
How to pack a box….
1. Find an empty shoebox.
The shoebox should ideally be medium size, as shown. 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
As before, the children 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 kind of things to buy in other places. If you can’t afford to fill a box completely, you can also use the shop to make a donation towards an Oasis Kids box. It’s best to put a mixture of things into each box; some school items, small items of clothing e.g. gloves, some toiletries (no liquids, scented soaps or aerosols) some toys and some sweets/chocolate (some restrictions). It’s also a good idea to include written greetings, together with a photo of you/your family.
4. Make your donation (6€)
Although the UK website (see below) can give helpful information about what to pack, the amount required to cover shipping costs is different. As we give through Geschenke der Hoffnung’, we need if possible to send 6 euros with every box. Please put this in an envelope and put it inside the box on the top. If you are not able to put together a whole box, this is another way in which you can contribute.
5. Drop off your shoebox at our church
Ensure your shoebox is secured with a rubber band around the outside and bring to church. You don’t need to wait till the deadline, which will be during the third week in October. You can start right now!
Each year, we have increased the number of boxes collected. Let’s try to make 2012 the best yet!!
Jessica & Alison, Oasis Kids Coordinators
For more information, please see the websites:
www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk / www.geschenke-der-hoffnung.org
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