Christmas Child charity shoebox 2009 appeal is launched

Sep 16 2009 by Gordon Robertson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

CARING people from Monklands have been asked to back one of the UK’s leading children’s charity campaigns.

Operation Christmas Child has launched its annual appeal in North Lanarkshire.

The initiative delivers shoeboxes filled with gifts to children living in very difficult conditions in several countries.

In 2008, a total of 3600 shoeboxes full of presents were donated by individuals and groups across the area.

The gift-filled boxes were checked at the charity’s warehouse in Kirkintilloch before being transported to Belarus, Crimea and Kyrgyzstan.

Organisers hope the current economic climate doesn’t stop donations coming in.

“Our concern for this Christmas is that people, naturally, are worried by the recession and that they might be undecided about donating a shoebox in 2009,” said Chris Thomson, regional manager of Operation Christmas Child.

Chris added: “ I am optimistic that the communities in North Lanarkshire will rise to the occasion this year, too.”

For more information visit www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk or contact the helpline on 0870 011 2002.