Norwich church is shoebox collection centre

Operation Christmas Child has been collecting and delivering shoebox gifts filled with school supplies, hygiene items and fun toys to children worldwide for three decades, and urges more people to join their mission.
 

Since 1990, the project has collected and delivered more than 200 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 160 countries and territories. Mark and Debra Watkins, are Church Relations and Community Relations team members with Operation Christmas Child.

Members of the Bowthorpe Road Methodist Church volunteer team including Yan, Tiffany, Idy and Steven, attended a workshop last month for project leaders and have enthused other church members about the project. Last year the church became a Church Collection Centre for the first time, a place that local people; groups and other churches can drop off filled shoeboxes, prior to them going to the processing centre in Coventry. 

Mark said, ”We are delighted that this loving church has agreed to continue to be a Church Collection Centre, and have set about planning their approach to this ministry. It is so evident, as a church and volunteer group, made of Christians and non-Christians, that they are all dedicated to sharing love at home and abroad.” The church has had various sales, including of cakes, craft work and plants, to raise money to buy items for shoeboxes, with the intention of having a fun and interactive event for all ages packing shoeboxes.

Debra said, “it is always a joy to meet with those at this church and we are so blessed by their welcome and commitment to support the Operation Christmas Child ministry. Our thanks go to all at this church."

Do you have a shoebox to drop off?

Even if your church doesn't get involved, it doesn't mean you have to miss out! Bowthorpe Road Methodist Church, NR5 8AB will be open as a Church Collection Centre during the week of the 10-17 November, see their website for opening times. You will receive a warm welcome and be supporting this church; by dropping of filled shoeboxes. This is an easy location to attend with plenty of parking available.  

Those interested in more information on Operation Christmas Child for your church, school, group or business can contact Mark and Debra Watkins at markdebrawatkinsocc@yahoo.com 
 
Visit: www.samaritans-purse.org.uk