Festive presnts for poor children (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Gargrave charity packs Christmas boxes

12:40pm Tuesday 17th November 2009 in Gargrave

Hundreds of Christmas boxes are on their way to some of the poorest children in the world.

Almost 1,000 wrapped shoeboxes were sent off last week, with many more expected to follow.

The boxes are made up for either boys or girls and contain toys, pens, notebooks, hats and gloves and basic toiletries.

Marie Chapman, a co-ordinator for Operation Christmas Child, run by Samaritan’s Purse, said: “These children have never received presents before, many are in war-torn countries and many suffer terrible poverty. It is wonderful to be able to send them something.”

The latest batch of boxes includes 100 gathered by brother and sister Jorge and Amy Taylor, from Skipton.

The children even donated pocket money to buy toys.

Marie said: “Last year we sent 800 boxes and this year we hope to send even more.”

Marie is collecting boxes until the end of November. Gifts can be left at Poppyfields Florist, High Street, Gargrave.