Operation Christmas Child

Each year, New Life Church collects shoe boxes from the congregation, toddler group, coffee stop and others, to send in as part of Operation Christmas Child. Operation Christmas Child is the UK’s largest children’s Christmas appeal and has been running for over nineteen years. Thanks to a huge army of volunteers who give their time to helps make this Christmas ‘miracle’ come to life, they are able to deliver gift-filled shoeboxes to children in Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia. They work with local churches and charities overseas to ensure that your shoebox gets delivered by hand to children who need it most. Their approach is to give to children in need, regardless of their background or beliefs. Where it’s appropriate their local partners also make available to children a booklet of Bible stories, including the original Christmas story – the birth of Jesus.

All you have to do is find an empty shoebox, cover it in Christmas paper and fill it with toys and goodies for a boy or girl in the age group you select. There is an excellent information leaflet that explains everything, and you can get one from Jo when that time of year comes round again. For more information, see the website: Operation Chistmas Child