Rachel Butterfield from the Parish Church heads up the operation here in Aldridge and here's what she has said about this wonderful work...

Operation Christmas Child is an initiative of Samaritans Purse- a Christian relief and development organisation which works through local
churches overseas to proclaim and demonstrate the love of God amongst communities in need in Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Shoe boxes are packed with toys, toiletries, and educational gifts and distributed to needy children. For a number of years shoeboxes have been collected in this area but now for the first time in Aldridge we are checking the boxes and packing them ready for export.
Thanks to the generosity of Gerry Leighton we have super premises to work in for these six weeks of frantic and enjoyable activity.

Over 60 volunteers have turned up to help so far from a variety of churches and ranging in age from 11 to 82 years old. There is such a happy atmosphere as we work together and are frequently really touched by the thought and generosity that a person has demonstrated in
packing their box. Some of us are finding the whole thing quite addictive and turn up as often as possible at the four sessions a week
the place is open. So far we have nearly 5000 boxes packed and ready to go.

A few schools have visited us to see what goes on behind the scenes. (pictures below)
 It has been a pleasure to show the children around and answer their searching questions.

A lorry  bound for either Belarus or Ukraine is provisionally booked for 11th December and it will be a busy time loading all the cartons, so any offers
of help to do this would be appreciated. Please let Rachel Butterfield know if you want to help. rsbutterfield@hotmail.co.uk  or phone 01922 625844