Christmas shoebox campaign underway

By Kathy Johnson

THE COAST GUARD

NovaNewsNow.com

The Operation Christmas Child shoebox campaign is well underway in Shelburne County, with hundreds of boxes already packed and ready to be sent to children living in some of the most deplorable conditions in the world. “Every box makes a difference,” said Darlene Smith, one of the volunteers helping out with the campaign. “Even if people feel they can’t afford to do a box, they can help by donating fillers that can be added to the boxes, or money to help cover the cost of shipping them.”

Smith had the opportunity to deliver Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to children in Nicaragua five years ago and it’s an experience she’ll never forget. “They were so excited because they had never received a gift before,” said Smith. “These shoeboxes are the only gifts some of them will ever receive. I’d drop everything to go again.”

The shoeboxes, which are available from churches throughout Shelburne County, can be stuffed with toys, personal care items, school supplies and small articles of clothing. Each box is labeled boy or girl, and what age group.

For toys, Smith suggests things that will last, like stuffed animals, rubber balls and harmonicas. Toothpaste is a no-no for the boxes, as is food, except for hard candy.

A total of 1,075 shoeboxes were collected in Shelburne County last year. Organizers are hoping to match or better that number this year.

The Calvary United Baptist Church in Woods Harbour is the drop-off point for Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes this year. Boxes will be collected at the church the week of Nov. 24 to 28.

Anyone wanting more information on the campaign can contact Pastor Phil Williams at 902-723-2491, or Darlene Smith at 902-723-2823.