A woman who organises an appeal for a Shrewsbury business to send “love in a box” from Shropshire and Mid Wales to disadvantaged children across the world at Christmas, is optimistic of setting a new record in 2010.
Jean Courtney, a receptionist at caravan dealership Salop Leisure, collected over 400 shoeboxes of gifts for disadvantaged children living in extreme poverty in Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia last year.
With a couple of weeks until the November 24th deadline, Jean has already collected 250 boxes this year and is delighted with the continued support from customers, staff, friends, caravan park owners, schools, churches, clubs and many individuals across the Shropshire region.
“The generosity of people never ceases to amaze me and I send my heartfelt thanks to everyone who is contributing,” said Jean. “The response to this year’s appeal has again been fantastic, bearing in mind the economic climate.”
Operation Christmas Child, which is run by Christian relief and development organisation Samaritan’s Purse, aims to show that these children have not been forgotten. The world’s largest children’s Christmas project aims to deliver the shoeboxes to children in need in time for the festive season.
The shoeboxes can contain toys, educational supplies, small hygiene items such as a toothbrush or a comb, and small things to wear, including gloves, scarf and jewellery.
It’s the 12th year running that Jean and Salop Leisure have supported Operation Christmas Child. Jean was originally prompted to support the project after seeing harrowing television news pictures of suffering children in Eastern Europe.
For more information please contact Mr Tony Bywater, Salop Leisure chairman, on 01743 282400.
