Operation Christmas Child

If you're anything like me then the magic of Christmas is about seeing people's faces when they open your gifts. Of course everybody loves presents, but for me, the best part is buying and choosing them. Unfortunately, we still live in a world where many are grateful just to be alive. It's super easy for us to forget, especially at Christmas, that some may be wishing for their next meal, a warm bed or clean water for Christmas not that really pretty coat you saw in Topshop's window. Everybody can be guilty of getting wrapped up in the Christmas spirit to take the time to think and act for someone in need. 

But this year I didn't want to be that guilty person. I wanted to take part in Operation Christmas Child last year but was too late to do so, so this year I was super organised. Samaritan's Purse are a Christian charity that provide international relief for those in need. I can put my hands up and say I'm not a regular church goer or the biggest believer but when it comes to projects such as Operation Christmas Child I'm happy to get involved. 

I remember filling one of these when I was in school and had so much fun choosing the items to pack. They're so easy to do and you don't have to blow the budget on the bits you choose to fill it with. All it takes is just five easy steps.

Step 1- Find a shoebox and choose your recipient. 

You want to get a medium size shoebox and wrap the lid up in festive paper of your choice (Don't worry if you don't have a shoebox lying around, you can order a GO Box from the website. However, it could be a good excuse to buy some new shoes). Next you want to decide on who you want to send your box to. We chose to pack our box for a girl aged 5-9 but you can also choose to send to a boy, or to the different age groups of 2-4 or 10-14. 

Step 2- Fill your shoebox with gifts
This is where the fun begins. Shops like The Works are great for these kind of gifts as you want to have a balance between toys and essentials. As you can see we have packed a wide variety of items, but if you need a bit of inspiration then you can visit their Gift Suggestions section on their website.

Step 3- Make your shipping donation 
It costs a mere £3 per shoebox you pack- that's the same price as the pizza you are considering buying on your way home, a second on the lips, a lifetime on the hips and all. Top tip: If you make your donation online, you can track it as it make's it's journey to one grateful child.

Step 4 - Pray, add a note and a photo of yourself  

This step is a personal preference for each individual. However, by putting a photo on the inside of the lid, you can let them know who was kind enough to send them a gift. 

Step 5- Drop off your shoebox  

You'd be surprised as to where your nearest drop off point is but to find it you can use this handy tool. 

Don't worry, if this post has inspired you then you have until the 18th of November to pack your box and drop it off, it will make you feel great I promise!