The shoeboxes that bring joy to needy children

Belarus children with shoeboxes from Operation Christmas Child

And these three little girls from Belarus obviously can’t wait to investigate all the goodies their boxes contain.

Luton mum Laura Kennedy went to Belarus with the OCC team earlier this year and the experience brought a lump to her throat. “I’ll never forget the joy shining in the children’s eyes,” she said. “They simply couldn’t believe that the presents were intended for them.”

Laura, 51, of Barton Hills has been volunteering with the charity for almost two decades.

And she’s hoping that many more families, schools, churches, organisations and businesses will get involved with this year’s appeal.

“It doesn’t cost much to fill a shoebox with small items like soap, socks and pencils,” she said. “But the impactthe other end if phenomenal.”

> For complete instructions on how you can help, visit www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk

The deadline is November 18 and Luton drop-off points include Shoe Zone in The Mall and the Christian Bookshop in Crescent Road.

OCC is organised by the Samaritan’s Purse charity.