Operation Christmas – Oasis Academy Watermead makes charity shoeboxes for children around the world

Chances are you have probably filled a shoebox, as part of the Operation Christmas scheme, with goodies during your school years.

One kind-hearted Sheffield primary school is in the process of supporting the Samaritans from filling shoeboxes to wrapping them up.

Oasis Academy Watermead want to bring happiness to those in need around the world this Christmas. Organised by Samaritan’s Purse, the shoebox appeal helps to bring joy to children around the world and give to those who wouldn’t otherwise be getting presents during the Christmas period.

The premise is fairly simple. Wrap an empty shoebox with wrapping paper, decide which age group you’d like to tailor it to, of which there are three categories (two-four-year olds, five-nine-year olds and 10-14-year olds), and fill it with a selection of gifts. These are then collected by local churches and are prepped to be delivered to over 100 different countries.

Adam Dawson, Principal at Oasis Academy Watermead, commented saying; “Even during the difficulties caused by the current global pandemic, we are humbled by the generosity our families have shown in a bid to help others less fortunate than ourselves and was inspired by our 9 Habits word throughout the month of December ‘Joy’.”

“A massive thank you to Emma and Gaby who have supported in making shoeboxes with pupils this Christmas. We know these are difficult times for many families and these donations will help a huge amount around the world.”

The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to show God's love in a tangible way to children in need around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Since 1990, more than 178 million children in over 160 countries have experienced God's love through the power of simple shoebox gifts from Operation Christmas Child.