The Parish Church of St John-at-Hampstead

Our Parish is again supporting the charitable work of Samaritan’s Purse, and plans to send shoe boxes filled with useful and fun items to children who have very little.  This year we have more details of where our presents will be sent, and of the particular needs and requests from the children.  (Those who have prepared shoe boxes before will note that there are slight differences from last year).   The age range is from 2 to 14 years, and last year there was a shortage of presents for children in the 2-4 year range, and for older boys (10-14).  Here are more details:-

Destination:  Mozambique – a war-torn area where prices of all products are spiralling.

Requests by and on behalf of the children:   Clothing – hats, gloves, scarves and socks, to keep warm at night.  School items which they have to provide to attend school: (paper, pens, pencils, sharpeners, rulers, rubbers, felt tips, crayons, paper, and geometry sets for older pupils).  Personal care –comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and small containers of shower gel and/or shampoo (such as hotels and airlines provide which, should be unopened and wrapped in cling film, please).   Fun things:  ball, skipping rope, yo-yo, balloons, pack of cards, games (e.g. draughts), small musical item (e.g. harmonic, small drum), chunky jewellery for girls. Also much appreciated are soft toys and hand-puppets. (More ideas and  knitting patterns can be found at www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk ).  Please ensure all items you pack are new.
               
Time frame:  completed shoe boxes will be blessed on Sunday, 7th November at the 10.30 service.  (They will then travel overland to Mozambique to arrive around Christmas time).

If you would like to take part, now is the time to start collecting things.  Before you start, you will need to find a good shoe box with separate lid and cover it with wrapping paper.  You will also need £2.50 to cover the cost of transporting your present to its destination.
The charity’s leaflets with fuller instructions will be available in church, and you are welcome to contact me with any queries (020 8455 4543).