Operation Christmas Child - Shoebox Appeal

[Gizmos]

Following on from another thread thought I would post this.

Since 1990, Operation Christmas Child has brought the joy of Christmas to more than 47 million boys and girls. Last year Samaritan’s Purse in the UK sent out over 1.18 million gifts to children across Eastern Europe and Africa. This annual project enables caring individuals, families, schools, churches, businesses, and other organisations to fill ordinary shoe boxes with small toys, school supplies, sweets, and other gifts for hurting children around the world.

Operation Christmas Child (http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/)

If you do a few boxes (good use for those H&B vouchers) you can split packs of pens, pencils etc across a few.

[ohsobusy]

Thanks Giz for this. I will definatley be packing a few boxes this year. Since I've had my bubs I have been wondering about sponsoring a child. I just worry that the money i give would all be eaten up with beaurocracy. If anyone on here sponsors a child or knows an organisation that gives 100% of the donation to the sponsored child then I'd love to know about it. :)

[madone!]

thanks giz that a really good way to donate. i ill pop back in to tesco and stock up on all there little gooies

Rep' you

[penfold]

tesco's £1 bargains would be good for this too. Pens, colouring crayons, skipping ropes etc.

[Gizmos]

I should add that if you don'thappen to have shoe boxes just go into one of the cheaper shoe shops on the high street who doesnt give them out to customers they are usually glad to give you a few.

[Gizmos]

tesco's £1 bargains would be good for this too. Pens, colouring crayons, skipping ropes etc.

yes - some of the things I put in last year nearly didnt make it into the box as the "kids" in my office were playing with them. Tesco do a pack of four frisbees for £1.25 and they were classed as great to pad out four boxes. However the yoyo (reduced from £10 to £2) nearly got stolen!!

[Angel]

I think it will be fun putting a box together!

[Gizmos]

also to add I mentioned H&B as they ask you to send toothbrush and toothpaste, flannel and soap.

Last year I had some soap that I no longer used and popped that in and bought a pack of four toothbrushes to share amongst four boxes.

Also managed to bag a cheap hat, scarf and gloves from Tesco (remember not all these countries are hot and even those that are can drop below freezing at night).

[Freckles]

We do this every year cause my mum's college do it, and we send ours through them. The kids love picking things to fill the boxes, and it really gets them thinking about it. They even go into their own toy-boxes and pick things they think other children would like - it has me in tears every year!

[rainbow]

I do it through Blythswood. They collect from our local churches but I'm not sure if it's nationwide or just North Scotland. My youngest son went to Romania this summer and last summer with them doing voluntary work. He plans to go back next year as well. He visited an orphanage and saw first hand how these kids react to getting gifts, as they handed out goodie bags to them. It has changed his perspective on life and I love hearing his stories and seeing the photos when he comes back.

[princess_poppet]

I will be doing my boxes this year. My kids school usually do a collection of boxes so i send in 2 boxes for boys with ds and 2 boxed for grils with dd.

They reaaly prefer teenage boys ones tho dont they so any ideas what to put in a teenage boys box???

[Gizmos]

I will be doing my boxes this year. My kids school usually do a collection of boxes so i send in 2 boxes for boys with ds and 2 boxed for grils with dd.

They reaaly prefer teenage boys ones tho dont they so any ideas what to put in a teenage boys box???

I put in hat, gloves, scarf, and a few toiletries - but thats where I also put in the yo-yo (didnt like to put it in younger due to possible H&Safety issues with the string) and also a small "build an aeroplane kit"

[princess_poppet]

yea thats all good idea giz. cheers x

[RainyDayBox]

Ben's school does this and it's brilliant. I save bits over the year to add into the boxes.

[ChickenCottage]

yes, I just got a letter home from school to do this.
(not my school, you understand, I'm an adult, me) :lol:

Anyhow thanks for the motivation, I'll get my wee ones to help.

[Bargainz]

My class made 16 boxes last year. I sent a little letter home and had extremely generous offers from boxes to large rolls of wrapping paper and toys the children had clearly used but wanted to give to someone less fortuate. I will stock up on soap and toothpaste this year, as the children tended to bring toys and pens / pencils.

It is a lovely thing to do, and is worth it in the end getting a whole class to try to wrap all those shoe boxes!!!!!!!

[Bargainz]

Cool, thanks floosy. I spend too much money on the kids anyway, so it's nice to fill those boxes, and send them away. It's quite emotional watching their little faces as they give up their own toys. So it's down to me to provide the practical stuff !!

Thanks again

[jammy]

Hi Everyone,
I have never done this before but reading this has made me want to this year.
I went to tesco tonight and bought 6 packs of the pens floosy said about.
I also got pencils,felttips,soap and toothpaste.
Thats a start and i will get a bit each time i shop.
It's a great thing to do.
Thanks for the ideas everyone :clap2:
I never thought i would say it but i think i love this sight more than MSE.
Everyone is so nice and thoughtful well done everyone :grouphug:
Jayne

[Gizmos]

jayne thanks for the kind comments - it's all down to the friendly faces on here and hope it continues in the same fashion it has started

[princess_poppet]

I have sat my kids down and explained why we are doing the boxes, what they are for, where they will go and what we will put in them.

My kids are soo excited to think that they will help a disadvataged boy or girl. even molly who is 3 is really taking an interest. We are starting off with 4 boxed (one each for the kids and one for me to do) and may do another 4 if we can before the deadline.

I have so far brought the pratical bits (gloves, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, flannel) and the kids and i are going to shop altogether for the fun bits for the boxes.

Do you fill the box right to the brim or leave some room?? Want to get it right so ppl dont take some out if its too much.

Any tips??

[Gizmos]

last year mine were packed but this year will leave some space

the gloves I got were actually like ski gloves so you can imagine the space they took up! But they still had loads of space for stuff

and err I did raid the stationary cupboard at work as well

[princess_poppet]

I brought gloves from Asda woolie pink ones with the grips on one side (also got a pack in blue for the boys boxes) only £1.25 for a pack of 2.

[jammy]

Thanks
I will get some of these tomorrow.

[rainbow]

Don't forget to put in a Christmas card, and if you want to be really clever, got to a translation site and write a wee message in Romanian. Blythswood like you to tape a note on top of the box with £1 coin to help with transport costs, and a list of the contents (to help at customs). Also say who it is for eg girl aged 5-8, teenage boy, etc

[rainbow]

Check out the Blythswood site for advice on filling a box. The video is well worth a look too - show your children so they can see where the boxes are going. I challenge you not to cry when you watch it! :Cry:

http://www.shoeboxappeal.org/page.cfm?id=40

:xmas-smiley-045:

[sparklejadey]

thanks for this link, I will definatley be doing a few boxes I think its a lovely idea

[suziq]

we are having fun doing this, got round to it for the first time ever! ty pts!

[jammy]

Check out the Blythswood site for advice on filling a box. The video is well worth a look too - show your children so they can see where the boxes are going. I challenge you not to cry when you watch it! :Cry:

http://www.shoeboxappeal.org/page.cfm?id=40

:xmas-smiley-045:

Hi,im a bit confused.
Yes i know it doesn't take a lot :D
This site says you can send shower gels ect,but the other one says no liquid.
As this is the first time i have done this i want to make sure i get it right.
Should i stick to the contents given on the first link.
Thanks

[rainbow]

Yes, I see what you mean jayne. I've always put bubbles and other liquids in the Blythswood boxes in the past. I suppose it's in case of leaks, but I'm sure they'd be fine if you check they're well sealed and perhaps inside an extra plastic bag just is case. You could always email them for clarification.

[pinkieplum]

This is such a lovely idea. I've been doing it for the past 10 years or so since my eldest was little. My kids get so much and I have to say I get greater pleasure from filling these boxes than I do my own kids stockings. I collect bits all year round (the end of the sale time when they are doing final reductions is great) Sometimes we also save the toys that the kids get in McD's happy meals (since they are 11 and 15 they don't have much use for them - but DS especially still likes to get a happy meal!) as there are often really nice things. Also don't forget your local poundshop. They are a good source of stationary too (if you are not fortunate enough to have access to a stationary cupboard:))

[Pearls]

We've been doing Samaritan's Purse boxes for years through school. I haven't had the leaflet yet this year, it is normally sent out before half term and we do it over the holiday (we get two weeks!)as an activity. It always feels like the first bit of Christmas for me each year. I save stuff through the year - often there are little bits in party bags which we put aside - and I'm afraid that after the kids have packed them I spend ages repacking them to get everything in!

[Gizmos]

gentle bump

[Gizmos]

I've posted this in here as I think it's something people could do as a family.

Can I appeal to everyone who is buying cheap toothbrushes/toothpaste/single cheap bar of soap to make up their minimum spend - just to keep these items in their packing and do not throw away or anything.

Last September I posted a link for a Christmas Shoebox appeal and these are all items that are "requested" in the shoebox's - perhaps with all the money we are all saving at Tesco and getting freebies etc we could all look at doing one or two of these each (or something similiar).

The above is from my post on the H&B thread, as it seems popular have started a thread for ideas of what to put in them

[Gizmos]

first idea what a lot of people might have is to

save the stickers from the quit packs

[tyroleandancer]

Great idea, have already put some things away :)

[borderlakeland]

sounds like great idea last time we did it we put in colouring pens/crayons small colouring books one of those little bouncy balls. some one else bought one of those mixed party bag thingies with loads little toys like marbles bangles etc and split them up

[Gizmos]

Tesco do packs of four frisbies for 99p - its as cheap to do four boxes as it is 1

also another request is for hats, scarf, gloves type of thing - so I may be appealing for some clothing vouchers later in the year

[Gizmos]

good idea - unisex as well

[Beej]

I've always done mine with the local church sending them to Samaritans Purse (http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/), this link gives you all the information about what to put in your shoe box.

[Gizmos]

that's the one that we've used - there is a handy tool on it that you put postcode in and it tells you where to drop off

[rainbow]

I've started collecting already..........remember when they reduced the £1 stuff from the end of the aisles to 10p? I filled my trolley of wee toys etc for shoeboxes. Mine go to Blythswood and collected through the church. DS2 has been to Romania on Blythswood voluntary projects a couple of times, and can vouch for how appreciative the Romanians are of help from here.

[Pearls]

Our school always does the boxes for Samaritans Purse. I always frisk party bags for thing that I can snaffle and put away - (Yes I am an evil mother) and I'm always on the look out for suitable gifts - I have boys so I always do boys boxes - I'm sure girls are easier! It's particularly hard thinking of things for young teenage boys - so if anyone has any whizz bang ideas I would be very grateful!

[Gizmos]

I got some yo-yos for 99p which lit up - this was in the sales the other year
a large pack of toy cars can be split over a couple of boxes
pack of playing cards

[rainbow]

dominoes
marbles
baseball cap

[mutley muppet]

Can I appeal to everyone who is buying cheap toothbrushes/toothpaste/single cheap bar of soap to make up their minimum spend - just to keep these items in their packing and do not throw away or anything.


OMG I could never throw anything away that could be used, especially something brand new! :eek:

I think the shoebox thing is a lovely idea. I will definately save all my bits & bobs. I also buy bits for the local dogs home with my H&B credit.
Donating toiletries to a local womens refuge is another great idea.

I usually give my quit pack stickers to my friend who is a primary school teacher as the kids love em!



...

[meemo38]

I'm hoping my little boys school does it again, its a small school, and they did really well, the lady who was giving a speach was in charge of it all for our town, i forget her name, she was leaving the school, but came back specifically for the box appeal as she was doing it at a local church and she explained it like this to the kids......maybe the schools boxes didnt look much, but when all the other schools in our town were put at the church and all the others towns ect then when they were took to be checked through and sorted there were actually thousands of boxes.....so dont think, oohhh whats my one/two little boxes going to do for all those thousands and thousands of deprived children, because its not just your one box.
Alos the kids were allowed to put a photo in of themselves with name and addy on, just incase they wanted to write back, which was nice, my little boy loved that bit.
Right must go to school LOL
Michelle

[missangelicus]

the shoebox appeal for the eastern eourpean countries is a good one too. Im a staff member of the ATC and we do this one . Although a word of warning. My cadets were really good i have 42 on the sqd and 39 shoeboxes handed in :) BUT when the people came to collect the shoeboxes, they said they had a minimum colection of 50 boxes :( they took them but told me off!!! when i arranged to do it i diodnt get told it was a minimum collection.

[GemLou]

the shoebox appeal for the eastern eourpean countries is a good one too. Im a staff member of the ATC and we do this one . Although a word of warning. My cadets were really good i have 42 on the sqd and 39 shoeboxes handed in :) BUT when the people came to collect the shoeboxes, they said they had a minimum colection of 50 boxes :( they took them but told me off!!! when i arranged to do it i diodnt get told it was a minimum collection.

That's a bit mean!! :(They should be grateful for what they get as every bit soon mounts up to a bigger whole.

We do one as my kids go to a Catholic secondary school but might do 2 this yr.

[missangelicus]

That's a bit mean!! :(They should be grateful for what they get as every bit soon mounts up to a bigger whole.
.

thats what i thought :o but i will do it again next year... i cant this year due to me being on mat leave from cadets, when it happens.... although i supose i coukld organise it from home and kick them all up the bum to do it on the phone... :)

[Effie]

Blytheswood care have a really good web site worth a look if you are filling a shoe box .they literally send thousands every year to orphanages and old peoples homes .The video they have had me in tears .The joy those folk, old and young show when they get their shoe-box is wonderful .They are so appreciative of so little ,even a card and a box of their own to hold their gifts .This year I'm filling one for an elderly man and a woman ,and like Rainbow I bought loads of 10pence items when Tesco had them on offer .My problem is finding suitable boxes I'll have to visit local shoe shops and ask for empty ones .Sorry if I've gone on a bit but this is a favourite project of mine .Love and blessings to all

[Effie]

PS forgot to say boy's and girl's boxes too 'cos I've got heaps of Tesco's 10 pence items suitable for children

[flossycandy]

Last year we dropped our boxes off at the church and the lady said "Ohhh. you must come and see." Well, we couldn't believe our eyes. There were brightly coloured boxes everywhere. They were hundreds of them. It made me think that people aren't as horrible as I think!

My best bargin that I have picked up so far this year is 25p gloves from Tesco and they are really pretty.

[kayw]

Thanks for that link Beej. I always used to do them when the kids were at school, and thought it was a fantastic idea. will get onto to it

[mummyglass]

I think this is a lovely idea and between the family we are going to do 4. 2 adults and 2 child ones. It is a great way of explaining to the children how lucky we are.

[angel,dust]

I suggested to DD school last year that children could do a box each.
But they said no:eek:

so count me in:D

[Unintended Muse]

I do a couple of boxes up each year, 1 each for a girl and a boy. Its not really difficult to find a few bits and peices cheaply and I often pick up bargains just after Xmas. I always put in a small cuddly toy, usually the smallest from the range that Tesco do each Xmas.

I've been using the Colgate 40p coupons from the Quit Pack to buy Tescos kids toothpaste at 11p, so there'll be a couple of tubes each in this years boxes. Another tip is to look out for the packs of 4 face cloths that Tesco sell from time to time for £1. Samaritans Purse always have toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, face cloths, etc on their list.

The idea of adding the stickers from the Quit Pack is an excellent one, and I'll be saving all of mine from now on.

[M3chanical_animal]

PS forgot to say boy's and girl's boxes too 'cos I've got heaps of Tesco's 10 pence items suitable for children

Great thread - my work does these appeals everytime - never thought how small a difference the 10p Tesco items could make to someone! Will most def be doing this and promoting this in my office!

:)

[pinkieplum]

Another thing that I keep for mine is some of the toys from McDonalds Happy Meals. My kids still love the boxes but are too old for the toys now. Also remember your local £1 shop is quite a good source of goodies too. My favourite is the very end of the Sales though when shops reduce things to silly prices to get rid. If you buy a couple of things every time you go shopping, come October you will have quite a pile!
I get more pleasure from making these boxes up than my own kids Xmas stockings! Didn't realise you could do them for elderly people too though so must investigate that too. Thanks

[Gizmos]

well done everyone didnt think that this would generate so much interest

[Effie]

Another thing that I keep for mine is some of the toys from McDonalds Happy Meals. My kids still love the boxes but are too old for the toys now. Also remember your local £1 shop is quite a good source of goodies too. My favourite is the very end of the Sales though when shops reduce things to silly prices to get rid. If you buy a couple of things every time you go shopping, come October you will have quite a pile!
I get more pleasure from making these boxes up than my own kids Xmas stockings! Didn't realise you could do them for elderly people too though so must investigate that too. Thanks

hats gloves and scarves are appreciated Men seem to be neglected so shaving items are good ,comb or brush ,soap,pens and writing paper for both sexes .just some of the items I have put in my boxes

[pinkieplum]

I got some kids dragon toothbrushes today as part of my H&B spend, they were reduced to 49p, along with Tesco kids toothpaste and soap. Have saved my Quit stickers too. Had better get some shoeboxes ready when I go shopping on Friday (I plan to get them early, before everyone else, every year but always leave it to the last minute and have trouble getting the right ones!)

[pinkieplum]

hats gloves and scarves are appreciated Men seem to be neglected so shaving items are good ,comb or brush ,soap,pens and writing paper for both sexes .just some of the items I have put in my boxes

gosh, there were loads of mens toiletries reduced right down in Boots sale and I ignored them as apart from my brother in law, the men in my family don't do toiletries. Have a nice Yardley lavender set in my present box that I got cheap so that now has a home!

[nixieh]

Hi everyone,

Just popped into my Tesco Extra today to look for the 1p phone charms but although there weren't any I did get a great bargain for our Christmas Shoebox appeal boxes. They were pink fleece hat and gloves sets marked down to 25p and then at the till they scan as 12p! I bought 6 sets in 2-4yrs and 6-8 yrs plus they had some older sizes too, what a bargain for 72p!!

Hope this helps someone!

[linzwylie]

thats a great price - and even better that a child somewhere will benefit from your generosity.

LINZ

[ninja_ang]

I think I've missed something, what are the shoebox appeal boxes, what can be put in them and where do you send them?
xxx

[Gizmos]

Ang - link to thread
Shoebox Appeal (http://www.paidtoshop.co.uk/showthread.php?t=10002&highlight=shoebox)

[caitlinsmummy]

This is a fantastic thread! I will definitely be doing this as well. You are all so kind and thoughtful xx

[ninja_ang]

thanks Gizmos, just had a read up, now need to find a shoe box!
xxxx

[Gizmos]

I think it's our way of giving a little something back whilst getting a little for ourselves at the same time - they literally cost nothing to make if you do it right

[Gizmos]

if you go to your local shop they will give them away - especially the shoe shops that have the shoes out in pairs and dont give you abox when you buy

[caitlinsmummy]

Yes you are right! I know every H&B shop I do now i will make sure at least one item is for a shoebox xx

[ninja_ang]

will have to go and get some then as I probably have all the things to go in them already!
xxx

[Gizmos]

twin packs of toothbrushes are good - if you are well organised and get a few people at work/playgroup etc involved - task people as follows:-

1. to get shoe boxes and wrap
2. to get small toys
3. to get the toiletries

etc etc of course PTS'ers will volunteer for number 3 on the list

[Shortie]

Hi

I'm going to be buying the Value Toothpaste as part of the H&B combo so these will be going in. Had a thought today too that the 99p stores always have 5 toothbrushes in a pack in stock so I'll buy some of those when I'm next passing. The toothbrushes are wrapped individually in the packs so can easily be seperated so you have one toothbrush and toothpaste together.....

Does anyone know the contact details for Britain-based appeals? Up til last year we gave children's pressies to a place a guy in my Dad's work place supported. I think it was for underpriviledged children in London. But he doesn't work there now and we don't have contact with the guy.... Anyone know of any for children and or adults? I have a stash of childrens bits already from Jan/Feb spends...

Ta
Shortie

[shopsomemore]

Do you know I never thought of looking through the hats etc - probably cause there are no clothing vouchers!! Jokes aside though I will def. be looking tomorrow -excellent find.(So glad I work up the road form Tesco two evenings a week extra bonus I finish in time for mega food reductions - I feel so blessed !!)

[Unintended Muse]

I'll be looking for some of these tomorrow :) its about the only thing I haven't got yet for this years shoeboxes.

Thanks nixieh

[fluffybunny]

Do you know I never thought of looking through the hats etc - probably cause there are no clothing vouchers!! Jokes aside though I will def. be looking tomorrow -excellent find.(So glad I work up the road form Tesco two evenings a week extra bonus I finish in time for mega food reductions - I feel so blessed !!)

the clothing coupons do work on hats!

[mummytotwo]

Great idea re the hats. Were they in the clothing area or on an end isle?

[sueplane]

What a great idea - have just been on the Samaritans Purse link and will definitely be taking part this year. It will be a good idea for my two boys to get involved and think about giving to less fortunate children at Christmas.

I'm going to print the list of 'things to pack' and keep it in my purse for future Tesco trips!

[nixieh]

The sets were on the end of a clothing aisle with all the other sun hats, bags and bits and bobs. I wish I had bought more now as I could have sent them out to other PTSers doing the shoe box appeal. If anyone is in Herts or N.London they were in the big Borehamwood store. The shoe box appeal is a great idea, I love filling the boxes with bits and bobs bought throughout the year, last year I got loads of bits when Tesco were doing their 10p items. It is a great way of helping children who otherwise may not get much at Christmas and is also a wonderful way of teaching my own children about kids less fortunate than themselves.

I always do girls boxes as I have girls and I can never think of what to put in the boys boxes! The other tip I got from on here is that you can use the 40p Colgate voucher from the Quit packs on any toothpaste so have been buying lots of the Tesco sparkle berry toothpastes for the boxes for just a few pence each.

[mummytotwo]

Thank You . does anyone have a list of things that can/can't go in the boxes?

[Gizmos]

there's a link to the other thread earlier on that links to the site that has a list - if that doesnt sound confusing - the main rule is no liquids or shrp objects so no shampoo etc

[mummytotwo]

thanks gizmo. looked on the other thread, must have missed the link

[nixieh]

From memory some of the suggestions given are: small toy (no guns or soldier items) eg small car for boys or doll for girls, pad, pens, pencils, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, face flannel, hat and/or gloves, I think sweets are allowed if packaged in complete packs. Hairbrush, hairbands etc for girls. These are just suggestions and I may have missed some.

Not allowed is anything liquid, no mirrors, glass or breakable objects and no books.

Hope that helps, I find the hardest thing is getting the shoe boxes as my local stores never seem to want to give me any!

[smitheim]

great tip nixieh, also found today that the 40p off colgate token works on tesco 'daily care' toothpaste @29p :D

[Ethansnan]

I didnt realise so many people did this.

My dh first got the bug a few years back when he decided our children were now independant and it was a nice way to give a child an xmas.

We generally do about 15-20 boxes. It doesnt work out that expensive when you use the whole year to plan and bargain shop.

We have a wardrobe in one of the spare bedrooms that we keep for all shoebox goodies we gather throughout the year.

[Gizmos]

that is excellent that you do so many - planning is all part and parcel of it and it keeps the cause fresh in the mind throughout the year

[pookienoodle]

card shops are really good places to find shoe box stuff they quite often have
silly sale items like flashing pens and very small pen and pad sets.
and clare accessories when they have a sale on for hair bobbles and clips.

[Unintended Muse]

In Tesco today I got a few triangular shaped packs from in the school section. Each one contains a selection of either coloured ballpoint pens, pencils or highlighters at £1 per pack. These would be ideal to be split up between shoeboxes.. especially if you have bought pencil tins or cases.

[sullieb]

I decided to do some shoeboxes this year to share some of the "luck" that I have had with Mr T. Suggested it to DH a couple of weeks ago and then looked at the appeal and decided to make up six boxes, one for each age catagory, boy and girl.

The only problem I seem to be having, is shoeboxes, are there any alternatives to shoeboxes?

[Gizmos]

I decided to do some shoeboxes this year to share some of the "luck" that I have had with Mr T. Suggested it to DH a couple of weeks ago and then looked at the appeal and decided to make up six boxes, one for each age catagory, boy and girl.

The only problem I seem to be having, is shoeboxes, are there any alternatives to shoeboxes?

ask in your local "cheap" shoe shop - the ones that put the shoes out on display in pairs already - they should have some out back and usually will go you some if you ask

[sullieb]

ask in your local "cheap" shoe shop - the ones that put the shoes out on display in pairs already - they should have some out back and usually will go you some if you ask

Thankyou Gizmos, never thought about that.

[angel,dust]

In Tesco today I got a few triangular shaped packs from in the school section. Each one contains a selection of either coloured ballpoint pens, pencils or highlighters at £1 per pack. These would be ideal to be split up between shoeboxes.. especially if you have bought pencil tins or cases.

after the kids go back to school all the back to school stationary etc will go on offer, so a good time to buy those colored pencils for the shoe boxes as they may well be much cheaper.:D

This may be silly but im gonna ask anyway...
what size shoe box do you need to use?
a) adult male
B)adult female
c) kids

also I will be putting aside the stickers from the bright and balanced kids booklet as they are much nicer than the quit pack ones.

[Gizmos]

any size is fine - last year I used boxes that werent shoe boxes though they do like separate lids on them; one thing that was noted as well is that they really do appreciate the hat, scarf, gloves the most. So if you have any "knitters" in the family that would be good to get them involved and make it a full on family project

[angel,dust]

any size is fine - last year I used boxes that werent shoe boxes though they do like separate lids on them; one thing that was noted as well is that they really do appreciate the hat, scarf, gloves the most. So if you have any "knitters" in the family that would be good to get them involved and make it a full on family project

No knitters left now since my auntie had an op on her hands the last thing she made was for DD1 when she was born (she is 8 now) a beautiful quilt and pillow.
I will be buying some hats gloves etc but thought I might get those fluffy night socks too, they do lovely ones in shaws (i think) that have a little pocket at the side with a Minnie teddy in it, really cute

[sandhabibi]

I didnt realise so many people did this.

My dh first got the bug a few years back when he decided our children were now independant and it was a nice way to give a child an xmas.

We generally do about 15-20 boxes. It doesnt work out that expensive when you use the whole year to plan and bargain shop.

We have a wardrobe in one of the spare bedrooms that we keep for all shoebox goodies we gather throughout the year.

How much money do you have to pay out though to get them delivered... I thought you had to put a cheque/postal order in each box towards the shipping costs! I'm doing 1 or 2 boxes as thought had to pay out when you hand them in:confused:

Got toothbrushes yesterday for them.

[Unintended Muse]

http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/filling-a-box.asp

Shoe Box Donations
Please donate a minimum £2 or more per box towards promotion, transport, processing and distribution of the shoe boxes.

If you are paying for more than one shoe box, please make one combined payment for all boxes rather than one payment for each box.

hth

[Unintended Muse]

after the kids go back to school all the back to school stationary etc will go on offer, so a good time to buy those colored pencils for the shoe boxes as they may well be much cheaper.:D

This may be silly but im gonna ask anyway...
what size shoe box do you need to use?
a) adult male
B)adult female
c) kids

also I will be putting aside the stickers from the bright and balanced kids booklet as they are much nicer than the quit pack ones.




Find an empty medium-size shoe box, approximately 18 x 30 x 13cm, (we reserve the right to split boxes which are too large). Wrap the lid and box seperately in wrapping paper.

Quoted from Samaritans Purse website
http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/filling-a-box.asp

[sandhabibi]

http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/filling-a-box.asp

Shoe Box Donations
Please donate a minimum £2 or more per box towards promotion, transport, processing and distribution of the shoe boxes.

If you are paying for more than one shoe box, please make one combined payment for all boxes rather than one payment for each box.

hth

Ok thanx I was sure it was £5, I can manage that then lol. Today at a boot sale a stall had lots of new happyfeet stuff so I got a small bouncey ball and was sorting money when I said that was ideal to go into my shoebox for the xmas appeal and she said in that case you can have it free and take this mini frisbee too.....Felt that one good deed deserves another was playing it's card...:)

[Gizmos]

that's great - if anyone is doing them for work it might be an idea to have a central point and get people to bring certain stuff or do a tickllist

[angelbee]

My dd loves doing her box, her school takes part every year.
She really thinks what she would like to put in and it's nice that she realises that there are children who are not so fortunate as her. It's such a small token but you know how much the children will love it and appreciate it.:)

[Angelmouse5]

I think they are a great idea I always save our boxes. I wish though that more parents at our school took part. We have 420 children and last year only managed to send 200 boxes, it does not need to cost the earth and the boxes go to those who really need it.

[angel,dust]

I think they are a great idea I always save our boxes. I wish though that more parents at our school took part. We have 420 children and last year only managed to send 200 boxes, it does not need to cost the earth and the boxes go to those who really need it.

My DD school refuses to participate. well they did last time i asked.
might give it another go seeing as the school minibus reversed into my car in june.:D

[Angelmouse5]

Good for you, it does not cost the school anything more than a little time I know that small schools do have trouble as they may not have the staff and resources but they could trial it and see.

[rainbow]

I've just been watching the video here which shows the reactions of children and elderly people in Romania when they received their shoeboxes. Very moving, and I'm sure the reactions will be the same whichever way you choose to send your box.

http://www.shoeboxappeal.org/page.cfm?

Just click on shoebox appeal in the navigation menu.

[Gizmos]

rainbow how timely
i got 3 x £2.75 boys hat, gloves and scarf set and 3 x pink gloves and 3 x scarves today plus lots from the £1 boxes and also 4 face clothes for a £1
guess I am doing one of each age - if anyone sees any cheap pink hats can they let me know

[rainbow]

I'm hoping that they'll reduce all that £1 stuff to 10p like they did before. I have a couple of bagfuls here ready - it's the shoeboxes I need! Must drop in past the shoe shop next time I'm passing.........imagine coming out with a pile of boxes you can't see past, now that would impress folks! :D Just make it look like they're heavy! ;)

[Gizmos]

ive got enough for six full ones so far (give or take a few bits n pieces) so I think thats a great start - will be getting all the toothpaste etc for other peoples as well (from you know where

[Christina F]

I have been doing these shoeboxes for the last few years and I really enjoy doing them. I work in a school so I just bring them into work and they are collected from there. The school is only small though (150 kids) and we struggle to get 50 boxes. However, they are still collected and we haven't had any complaints.

One thing I have noticed is that there is always more of the younger age boxes and I would like to ask the parents in my school to consider doing boxes for teenage boys and girls. I try to do one each but it is really hard to find things that might be suitable.

SO: any suggestions for items that may be suitable for teenagers
I will start off:
Pack of playing cards (think the Poundshop stocks these)
Dominoes (again poundshop)

Any other ideas?

[spuds1974]

Pens, pencils, notebooks,

[Gizmos]

Yo yo's I got these from Tesco last year reduced to a £1 for aabout £7 and they had flashy lights

[M3chanical_animal]

hehe I read your post quickly Giz and thought you were starting a rap! :eek:

[rainbow]

SO: any suggestions for items that may be suitable for teenagers
I will start off:
Pack of playing cards (think the Poundshop stocks these)
Dominoes (again poundshop)

Any other ideas?

Cosmetics/jewellery/hair accessories/manicure set for girls
warm hats, gloves, socks, scarves
baseball caps for boys

[Gizmos]

yo yo dude get down and rap
don't listen to all Gizmo's crap
check it out (puts fingers in rappers stance with arms crossed and looking menacing)

ok I'm off that was pathetic

[Gizmos]

warm hats, gloves, socks, scarves
baseball caps for boys

baseball caps are 75p and £1 in our store and the hat, glove and scarf set I got was £2.75 and they ahve them for various ages (this was just boys)

girls one size pink gloves are 75p and pink glitter scarf is £1 - these are all on and end stack however must admit I did get quite a few yesterday

[Jammygal]

I have been collecting a couple of other free things for these boxes;
1. Boots Back to School packs as inside they are giving away a small pack of crayons and some fish stickers with a card to stick them on.
2. The stickers from Tesco smart kids leaflets. (I cut off those with words and letters).
Also as said previously the stickers from quit packs.

Am also going to buy simple soap which is on BOGOF at the mo with my H and B coups. ;)

[sullieb]

I have got a question regarding pencils in shoeboxes, crazy I know, but here goes. I found a great pack of colourful, pictured pencils and erasers from Tesco (wherelse), eight for a pound which I am planning to split up over the boxes BUT do I sharpen them first? I don't know whether the children in poorer countries would have access to pencil sharpeners, so I thought simple, add sharpeners to the boxes but then I thought would they allow these as effectively they are blades?

As you can see I am thinking far too much about this and wondered if someone could just answer my question.

Thanks in advance!

[Jammygal]

I think you are encouraged to put in pencils and I think it is a good idea to sharpen them.....am not so sure about sharpeners.......think you may be right about blades....best avoid I believe!!! Go for the rubbers instead...;)

[sandhabibi]

I brought a big pack of pencils that are already sharpened but if they break they will need a sharpener so I got one from Tesco (of course). It is one of the ones attached to a little box to catch shavings.
A sharp pencil could damage as much as a sharpener blade if taken apart...

Just checked on site and it's fine...EDUCATIONAL SUPPLIES – something to do
Felt pens, pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, rubber, colouring book,notepad, picture/puzzle book, chalk, pencil case, stickers etc.

[*debbie*]

My friend's dad does the shoeboxes with Rotary and he always moans that people put in pencils but no sharpener - what use is a present you can't use as he always says! Definately put in at least one sharpener, if you put in two they can share them out.

[sunny]

Tescos have a tube of red and blue hair hair bobbles that say 1 pound on them, reduced to 25p if you can find them in store (they are usually at the end of isles) Beware! the tubes of grey or the tubes of pink still scan at full price!
Also have 3 Back to School Alice band hair bands (red, blue and black) for 37p for 3. Ideal for filling up the christmas baskets or even the christmas shoe boxes.

[Button]

I am really pleased this year. My daughter's school has chosen the shoe box appeal as their charity for this year. They sent a note home asking for donations of stuff so that they can make up the boxes. This has been great for me. I have so far been able to send in 48 tubes of toothpaste and 50 packs of Asda colouring pencils @ 16p each - bargain!! Anyway, thanks for the reminder about the sharpners - must get out and buy 50 to be packed with the pencils! :o

[sandhabibi]

My shoebox is nearly ready, wrapped in xmas paper so can be taken to place on 4th November which is when they start taking them near me. I will do a few next year as find it satifying to know that a child will really appreciate that bag of sweets, colouring stuff,toys etc.

[Christina F]

Well me and my two sisters did ours last night - we had enough items for 10 boxes between us. (we buy things throughout the year - particularly in the sales). I also had some spare shoe boxes so wrapped them in pretty Xmas paper and brought them into work and offered them to colleagues and they are all gone!!

[angel,dust]

ok so far I have
for girls boxes
flip flops
hair sets (bobbles clips etc)
stickers
note pad
comb
socks
sparkle pink hat and gloves
toothpaste
flannel
soap
colour pencils

will add toothbrush, pencil sharpener, small doll or teddy, small ball.

for boys (am struggling a bit)
toothpaste
flannel
soap
comb
small puzzle
colour pencils
note pad
stickers

will add socks, hat and gloves, car toy, pencil sharpener, teddy, small ball,

any other suggestions?

[jonquil]

My daughter's school is doing "shoeboxes for Rwanda" for their harvest celebrations, si I've started collecting a few bits
Angel I've put in the toys from the Happy Meals as my kids have got loads of these already might be good for your boys boxes

[angel,dust]

My daughter's school is doing "shoeboxes for Rwanda" for their harvest celebrations, si I've started collecting a few bits
Angel I've put in the toys from the Happy Meals as my kids have got loads of these already might be good for your boys boxes

ohh miccy d's for tea tonight DD's will love me for it too:D wonder how OH would react to being given happy meal lol :behindsofa:

[Christina F]

ok so far I have
for girls boxes
flip flops
hair sets (bobbles clips etc)
stickers
note pad
comb
socks
sparkle pink hat and gloves
toothpaste
flannel
soap
colour pencils

will add toothbrush, pencil sharpener, small doll or teddy, small ball.

for boys (am struggling a bit)
toothpaste
flannel
soap
comb
small puzzle
colour pencils
note pad
stickers

will add socks, hat and gloves, car toy, pencil sharpener, teddy, small ball,

any other suggestions?

How about a pack of cards, dominoes, cars, bouncy balls?

[shoppaholic45]

where do i send the shoe box to, i am wanting to do one, but not sure where to send it to

[sandhabibi]

I'm doing mine for this charity and you put in yr postcode to find nearest place that you can take it to....
http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/dropoff-points.asp

[shoppaholic45]

thank you, i will have a look

[angel,dust]

am so excited got loads of stuff for shoe boxes today from the bargin bin

book of masks (contains 11 masks to colour and decorate) 25p
art pack (contains feathers, lolly sticks cotton balls, foam things) 25p
pack of craft type little glue pens (24) 25p
egg stamper things 20p for pack of three
pritty pink pencils for 9p
pack of 4 rubbers 9p
minnie picture puzzles 24p
winnie the pooh sharpeners pack of two 35p
animal hand puppets 70p
mini cars 40p

boys caps (nice ones too) 50p each
boys socks 75% off (pack of ten)
:D:D:D

[Our*holiday*fund]

been reading about these for a few months, had not heard of them before and when i looked into it there wasnt anywhere near me i could find to take them.
then today my dd bought i letter home from school, the scool are hoping to recieve at least 50 :), will make my 4 year old happy to take 1 or 2 of these into school.

[tikal73]

my mum always does the shoeboxes and has got me into it too. She tries to better herself each year with the number of different items. This year she is up to 50 with one box!

[indy]

my mum always does the shoeboxes and has got me into it too. She tries to better herself each year with the number of different items. This year she is up to 50 with one box!

50 items how bigs the box

[NitWit]

http://www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk/yellowrib.html

If anyone has any excess stuff from the H&B or needs to top up a clothing spend.... please could you keep the above in mind?

They have also requested Talc! I have a feeling Santa will be sending lots of that :)

[sullieb]

http://www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk/yellowrib.html

If anyone has any excess stuff from the H&B or needs to top up a clothing spend.... please could you keep the above in mind?

They have also requested Talc! I have a feeling Santa will be sending lots of that :)

Definately agree, I am really dissapointed in the lack of response to this, thought that it would have been more supported!

[princessa]

Hello!

Since we're all drowning in H& B I was just wondering if anyone will be putting any of their toiletry stash into a shoebox for the operation christmas child / shoebox appeal? I'm going to make up a couple of boxes as they need toothbrushes/toothpastes and I'll be able to find some extra bits to go in too.

I was also wanting to donate to the 'support our soldiers' appeal, but there's no one around here who can collect the boxes. I think I may hire a courier and send them a box of toothpastes/shampoos/showergels/deoderants then at least it's going to them. They're after talc too!

Links for anyone interested:

http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/index.asp

http://www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk/yellowrib.html

[minniem]

I will be doing. I have also told my friends at work who are also doing the shoeboxes, that I will give them toothpaste, brushes etc for them to put in theirs.

[angel,dust]

Hello!

Since we're all drowning in H& B I was just wondering if anyone will be putting any of their toiletry stash into a shoebox for the operation christmas child / shoebox appeal? I'm going to make up a couple of boxes as they need toothbrushes/toothpastes and I'll be able to find some extra bits to go in too.

I was also wanting to donate to the 'support our soldiers' appeal, but there's no one around here who can collect the boxes. I think I may hire a courier and send them a box of toothpastes/shampoos/showergels/deoderants then at least it's going to them. They're after talc too!

Links for anyone interested:

http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/index.asp

http://www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk/yellowrib.html

im doing both types this year. gonna get my Cuz (in afganistan at the mo) army number and send him 5 boxes one for him and four for some mates. this way I don't get chinned on postage.
also have roped a friend into taking boxes to collection point (near where he works a long way from here) so If anyone want to pm me and meet up in tesco car park or something I can transport their boxes too.
im in south wales

[clockwatcher]

Someone also suggested donating to women's refuges - they always welcome toiletries etc for women/children who arrive with nothing.

[princessa]

That's a fab idea Angel Dust, plus you'll know the people it's going to. Do you get free postage to people in the services out there? Is that any weight?

[angel,dust]

Someone also suggested donating to women's refuges - they always welcome toiletries etc for women/children who arrive with nothing.

that would be Giz, and that is also a fab idea they shall be getting some talc off me at the least

[princessa]

Someone also suggested donating to women's refuges - they always welcome toiletries etc for women/children who arrive with nothing.

another fab idea! We don't have a refuge within 60 miles of us but if we did I'd definately be giving to them.

[weimaranermerlin]

Thanks a lot for these links! Hubby will be thrilled when I tell him that I will get rid of 'some' H & B.. How great is it to have gotten the stuff for free, collected loads of points and now havethe chance to give them to people who appreciate them? Eveyone is a winner... :clap2:

[angel,dust]

That's a fab idea Angel Dust, plus you'll know the people it's going to. Do you get free postage to people in the services out there? Is that any weight?

It has been announced recently that parcels to forces are free as long as you have the personal details of the person it is meant for. not sure about the weight thing but would think the shoe boxes would be fine. :)

[princessa]

I usually do a shoebox or two every year, our local paper collects them all in for this area. I'm sure I got the SOS link off someone from here so thanks to them, afraid I can't remember who it was so I just googled it today.

Our tesco also do an xmas tree every year, where they hang 'decorations' from it, and each decoration will have the details of a local child (only their sex and age, no names or addresses) who are in need of xmas presents. So for eg, last year I picked off a '6 month girl' and a '7 year old boy' and I went and bought presents for them, wrapped them, and handed them back in to tesco's who distributed them out to the local families who aren't as fortunate.

[chipbeck]

I usually do a shoebox or two every year, our local paper collects them all in for this area. I'm sure I got the SOS link off someone from here so thanks to them, afraid I can't remember who it was so I just googled it today.

Our tesco also do an xmas tree every year, where they hang 'decorations' from it, and each decoration will have the details of a local child (only their sex and age, no names or addresses) who are in need of xmas presents. So for eg, last year I picked off a '6 month girl' and a '7 year old boy' and I went and bought presents for them, wrapped them, and handed them back in to tesco's who distributed them out to the local families who aren't as fortunate.

I've nowt but a lot of people have got less, as an ex squaddie I'll try the forces one. You are truly a Princess love and you will reap your rewards. By the way did you give the kids any H&B,SB or Quits.:eyebrows:

Keep spreading that happiness.

[SuzyWoo]

Will merge with the other thread on this.

[princessa]

OK, only posted in the tesco discussion as I thought more people would see it and find something to do with their H&B.

[SuzyWoo]

That's fine, just trying to have a tidy up! :)

[angel,dust]

I've nowt but a lot of people have got less, as an ex squaddie I'll try the forces one. You are truly a Princess love and you will reap your rewards. By the way did you give the kids any H&B,SB or Quits.:eyebrows:

Keep spreading that happiness.

they ask for toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, flannel etc
Ive put some talc and stuff in too
as well as a hand pupet (50p in tesco) some pecils paper.
hair stuff for girls sunglasses for boys
flip flops for both (25p in tesco) etc etc

[M3chanical_animal]

How is everyones boxes going? :)

[rainbow]

Me and my mum were busy stuffing them this afternoon. It's amazing what you can get in a shoebox. I had to remove some stuff from the packaging to get it all in. I'm sure the kids won't mind that their toothpaste, toy cars etc hasn't got the boxes they came in.

[Gizmos]

doing well here :) except no shoe boxes so have give that duty to someone else

[carolwat]

Gizmo if you go to a Brantano store they are usually more than helpful in providing shoeboxes.

[Effie]

Me and my mum were busy stuffing them this afternoon. It's amazing what you can get in a shoebox. I had to remove some stuff from the packaging to get it all in. I'm sure the kids won't mind that their toothpaste, toy cars etc hasn't got the boxes they came in.

darlin' daughter's boxes were full to overflowing I'd love to see children's faces when they get their boxes .
PS I was going to post this too about our afternoon's exploits but DD beat me to it

[sullieb]

Doing really well,

I have done ten boxes for the Soldiers and six boxes for the kiddies, one from each group.

Have to keep taking things out the boxes to have a re-weigh and then adding alternative goodies!

Just trying to find some "funny" Christmas Cards to put in with the Soldiers ones with my message of support. Usually the shops are flooded with these but really struggling to find any this year - will continue my quest.

This is my first year of doing these boxes, money has always been a bit too tight but thanks to finding PTS and the religion of Tesco I can happily give, give and give a little more back!

[katharine117]

Just wanted to bump this up to remind anyone who is doing a shoebox that it needs to be in by 20th Nov (well the Operation Christmas Child one does anyway).

I'm just busy finishing off the two I'm doing, although think I might have to try to find a bigger shoe box :)


http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/occ-leaflet.asp

[sandhabibi]

I took mine to the collection point on Thursday, they said they have been swamped so thats really good news....

[Unintended Muse]

I handed in 4 boxes stuffed to the brim on Friday. The hardest part was trying to get showboxes that were within the size allowed [not really all that big]. Clarks helped out with 2 boxes, so anyone still struggling with that - just pop in and ask. They are used to the requests this time of year.

DD sat with me while I got the boxes packed and offered suggestions. In the end though, it was determination [or stubborness?] that got everything I wanted packed in and they all had a good selection of toys, sweets and toiletries and 2 had hats, gloves and scarf sets too.

[shopsomemore]

I am having trouble with the older boys boxes - toy wise - what to put in. Have got the soap stuff and paper stuff oh and sweet stuff - just need the fun bit??

Also the soldiers stuff - Do I have to do boxes or can I just donate what I have - H and B and no7 sun stuff??

[Christina F]

For the older boys:
Dominoes
Pack of cards
Cant think of anymore at moment but will have a think and get back on later

[Gizmos]

got another Yo Yo on my desk that I will throw in - everytime I get them they get borrowed

[angel,dust]

doing well here :) except no shoe boxes so have give that duty to someone else

Gizmo if you go to a Brantano store they are usually more than helpful in providing shoeboxes.

tried brantano they say yes then don't keep them for me!! they have done it 3 times now!! it's doing my head in :frusty::frusty::help:

[Effie]

What About A Yo-yo ,travel Games Like Draughts,chess Etc, Felt Tip Pens ,pack Of Cards,it's Difficult Because You Have To Avoid Anything That Will Need Replacement Batteries ,I PUT In A Pencil Case Filled It With The Usual Things + Fun Pencil Sharpener Good Luck

[mhoc]

Taken my eight boxes in today, our collection point is a local chemist. I think this has been the best bit of Christmas this year, filling the boxes and I already have a wine box to start collecting bits for next year.

Next thing is to see what I can give to the local salvation army who do hampers for Christmas. They collect new toys but I wonde rif they would like my toothpast collection as well :D

My gang are all teenagers now, in fact I realised with horror that this Christmas we will be a family of 4 adults and only one child:eek:

I asked the two youngers what to do about Christmas this year, they were both still very keen on me doing Christmas stockings and having Christmas on Christmas day even though we might not be altogether. And the discusssions of what presents they wanted were very expensive. Christmas has very much lost its magic now

[Khufu]

We have 10 shoeboxes ready to go but don't know how to find someonewho is running the scheme in our area - any ideas?

[Gizmos]

try this

drop off points (http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/dropoff-points.asp)

[Gizmos]

and in preparation for next year

puppets (http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/knitting_for_occ.asp)

if I start now I may manage to do one by next Christmas

[ConfusedShopper]

We have 10 shoeboxes ready to go but don't know how to find someonewho is running the scheme in our area - any ideas?

Yes that's my problem, its not doing the boxes its where to take them:confused: I have enough stuff for about 50 shoeboxes now:eek:as I am a volunteer at out local 'Sense' charity shop and they put all the little sample soaps, creams, etc for the adult boxes and soft toys, McDonald toys, pens etc. aside for me:)

So any advice who to contact about the boxes would be welcome:)

Thank you:D

Brenda
x

[siennahue]

and in preparation for next year

puppets (http://www.samaritanspurse.uk.com/occ/knitting_for_occ.asp)

if I start now I may manage to do one by next Christmas

They look fab, I'd never have thought of puppets, but it kind of makes sense

Sienna

[Unintended Muse]

There were glove puppets in some of the £1 boxes in Tesco this year.. I had a lion and a monkey to add to my boxes.

[glo]

I wish some of the boxes were sent to South America too!

[rainbow]

Blythswood give details here for shoebox drop off points.

http://www.blythswood.org/page.cfm?id=71

[sandhabibi]

Omg Programme on bbc1 now is so upsetting. I hope some of our boxes find their way to put a smile on those kids faces, It truely is awful to watch more so if you have kids yrself.:cry:

[angel,dust]

Heeeeeeeelllllllllllpppppppppp please im at the end of my rope!!!! I am still 3 shoe boxes short and have tried everything harassed relatives and friends and the woman in brantano now officially hates me (i think) have tried clarks but all the boxes they offered were too small, tried the little shoe shop about a mile away, cant think what else to try!!!!!! im feel like im:frusty::frusty: i have everything ready just need more boxes

[princessa]

Can you not go to a card shop or au naturel or something? We've got some shoebox type boxes from clinton's cards, they're just prettier and sturdier but the same size. Though cost more but we have cheaper local card shops that you can maybe try.

[angel,dust]

Can you not go to a card shop or au naturel or something? We've got some shoebox type boxes from clinton's cards, they're just prettier and sturdier but the same size. Though cost more but we have cheaper local card shops that you can maybe try.

ohhh will try the pound shop never thought of that:der::der: thanks rep on its way

[princessa]

Hope you find some, we used ours as a keepsake box for all our twins birth stuff and paper cuttings etc, but they had loads of sizes and if you have a £1 then not too much to spend! Hope you get sorted. Glad I looked on here as I've the stuff to make the boxes but thought I had till the 29th to drop them off and just realised it's the 20th so will have to make them up today!

[angel,dust]

Hope you find some, we used ours as a keepsake box for all our twins birth stuff and paper cuttings etc, but they had loads of sizes and if you have a £1 then not too much to spend! Hope you get sorted. Glad I looked on here as I've the stuff to make the boxes but thought I had till the 29th to drop them off and just realised it's the 20th so will have to make them up today!

yeah thats the reason for the box panic have to get them done by tomorrow. so I shall pop out later this afternoon and see what I can find.

[rainbow]

Might be worth a look in your local recycling centre if you've one near you.

[Khufu]

THanks for giving me drop off points, just been through the rain to drop off 10 (only dropped them twice on the way!)

[Beej]

I dropped my 2 shoeboxes off at a local Church Service yesterday morning, it was lovely to see they had collected 130 boxes to send off. I struggled to get some shoeboxes so I just used a small cardboard box that I had received a delivery from T's in.

[Khufu]

I wish some of the boxes were sent to South America too!

Well its not likely as Christianity is already a dominant religion there.

I wish some non religious sect would get off their ass and takeover the scheme so it wasn't a conversion scheme, as the charities commission is so critical of this one, but as they don't I'lll fill a few boxes to salve my conscience too and ignore how they are used.

[mummytotwo]

Heeeeeeeelllllllllllpppppppppp please im at the end of my rope!!!! I am still 3 shoe boxes short and have tried everything harassed relatives and friends and the woman in brantano now officially hates me (i think) have tried clarks but all the boxes they offered were too small, tried the little shoe shop about a mile away, cant think what else to try!!!!!! im feel like im:frusty::frusty: i have everything ready just need more boxes

I know it sounds silly but have you thought about Tesco's?

[shopsomemore]

I got one from matalan as shoe shop had none. Then my son tells me his teacher has shoe boxes in the cupboard. Then when I finished wrapping them I find another one under the stairs !!

[Unintended Muse]

Clarks gave me 2 boxes, but still had to scrounge 1 from a work mate and another from a neighbour at the last minute. I don't think many people would mind helping out if they could, knowing its for a good cause.

[mhoc]

Just thought it might be a good idea to collate all the queries and findings about the annual Christmas shoe box collection here. The campaign dates are November 1st to the 18th

This is a link with answers to all the normal questions

http://www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk/pages/what-occ

But I also thought it might help if we all prompt each other with ideas about what to fill the boxes with. I know I have been collecting stuff since last November so I have littlle treasures all over the place.

For instance some people were lucky enough to find 1p socks in the Tesco sale and even further back cheapest flip flops.

Last year I went to the Clarks shoe shop and collected lots of the little green childrens shoe boxes. These are very strong and a lot easier to fill than the giant size 10 or 11 shoe boxes my gang have :D
We managed to fill six boxes last year so hopeing to do even better this year.

So it might be worth giving Clarks a ring and asking them to save you some boxes until you get into town because I know there is a great demand for them.

This is also a good half term, getting the boxes ready.

[Mrs Lady C]

Does anybody know if it will be okay to put the free asda vitamins in the shoe boxes for the children as I have a few spare.

[Highland_Lass]

We do this every year in the school I work in for the Blytheswood Appeal. It's great getting the kids involved in this.

[honeybunch]

Does anybody know if it will be okay to put the free asda vitamins in the shoe boxes for the children as I have a few spare.

No medicines or vitamins are allowed.:)

[Becles]

Watch the videos on the website above showing the children getting the boxes in previous years, and read the stories. Hankies at the ready mind :o

It's so lovely seeing their little faces light up at their boxes, but sad to think they are so pleased with soap and toothbrushes and all the other things we take for granted here.

My children have been on the website too, and it makes them appreciate just how lucky they are.

[sweepy]

Can i ask you is there boxes for girls and boys and is there age ranges .
thanks sweepyxx

[mhoc]

Can i ask you is there boxes for girls and boys and is there age ranges .
thanks sweepyxx

Yes I think there are three age ranges and on the labels you tick either girl or boy boxes. Its very challenging to do boxes for older boys so I try and od at least two of these.

[sweepy]

Wonderful i work next door to a clarks so i will be there next week.
sweepyxx

[honeybunch]

Watch the videos on the website above showing the children getting the boxes in previous years, and read the stories. Hankies at the ready mind :o

It's so lovely seeing their little faces light up at their boxes, but sad to think they are so pleased with soap and toothbrushes and all the other things we take for granted here.

My children have been on the website too, and it makes them appreciate just how lucky they are.

I watched that the other day, def need hankies at the ready:o

[honeybunch]

Does anyone have a link? Cant seem to get the video up now.

[missstroppy]

Does anyone have a link? Cant seem to get the video up now.

nor me...tried refreshing and nothing?

[sweepy]

Omg i just watched it i was sobbing for a change lol.
sweepyxx

[suzanne s]

My mum has been doing this ever since her first grandson arrived - my boy, 17 yesterday. Each time she became a gran again she increased the boxes. She was very pleased when my brother and me stopped at 7 grandchildren :D

It's a lovely idea, and I think she gets almost as much pleasure making them as the children do receiving them :)

[tyroleandancer]

I am putting together a box for a teenage girl
face wipes
shwer foam
bath scruchie

toothpaste
toothbrush
hairgrips
bobbles
pens
pretty notebook
glitter stickers
sharpener
ruler etc
sweets
can I put in body spray?

[sweepy]

I have some sanex deord roll ons i was thinkin of that.
sweepyxx

will keep your list if u dont mind tyrol

i am thinkin of doin 1 of each of the boxes and will put a small football in the boys ones lol.
sweepyxx

[tyroleandancer]

I have some sanex deord roll ons i was thinkin of that.
sweepyxx

will keep your list if u dont mind tyrol

i am thinkin of doin 1 of each of the boxes and will put a small football in the boys ones lol.
sweepyxx

I don't mind :)
add face wipes to the list
A roll on sounds good :)
I have a teenage girl so it easy :)

[littlemissnaughty]

We do these every year. My ds loves doing them and now dd is getting involved as well. We always put a photo of the kids and our address in aswell but have never had a reply. I know a friend got a reply one year and I believe they still keep in contact now :love:

[tyroleandancer]

We do these every year. My ds loves doing them and now dd is getting involved as well. We always put a photo of the kids and our address in aswell but have never had a reply. I know a friend got a reply one year and I believe they still keep in contact now :love:

I like the photo idea :)

[honeybunch]

I am putting together a box for a teenage girl
face wipes
Shower gel
bath scruchie
body lotion
toothpaste
toothbrush
hairgrips
bobbles
pens
pretty notebook
glitter stickers
sharpener
ruler etc
can I put in body spray?
Forgive me if im wrong but you arent allowed to put in liquid things like shower gel/body lotion, not aerosols either. Soap is fine though:)

[honeybunch]

DO NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
FOOD Chocolate, crisps, biscuits, tinned food or cakes (or any other food)
MEDICINE Medicines or vitamins of any kind
WAR RELATED ITEMS toy guns, soldiers or knives
CLOTHING (other than listed above)
FRAGILE ITEMS Glass containers; mirrors
LIQUIDS of any kind including blow bubbles, shampoo, bubble bath, toiletry sets or aerosols
DANGEROUS ITEMS Marbles or sharp objects – scissors or razors
NOVELS
ANYTHING OF A POLITICAL OR RACIAL NATURE

[Gizmos]

toothpaste and brushes are fine - in fact they ask for these iems

got some lovely hat and scarf sets from Tesco for £1.25 back in January - ten of these have been given to the girls at work to add to the boxes - I just buy the stuff and they make up

[Pearls]

I've probably said this back on this thread in previous years - but the shoebox is always the first thing to put me in mind of Christmas - I love doing it - off to check ny pudding/cake/mincemeat recipes..................

[frexy]

last time I did one it was for a teenage boy as they do not get many.

Everyone likes to do the youngsters and todlers but not the older boys.

it was not too difficult, added a baseball cap that was bought during the year plus pens pencils and notebooks,scarf and gloves and some Haribo.

[tyroleandancer]

Stand corrected on the shower gel
have replaced it with a shower foam, hope that is ok

[Gizmos]

i put in a bar of Lush stuff I had lying around :-)

[sweepy]

Oh that will smell lovely giz.
sweepyxx

[Gizmos]

smelt like Marzipan - wrote stickers and put on DO NOT EAT THIS am sure with the Lush packing it would be recgnised as soap

[YooHoo]

I love doing the shoe boxes, my mil got me into doing them afew years ago. My Ds now does them for school and we have been collecting things all year for them.

One thing recently which I have been picking up for the boxes is the free Lego from the Mirror, which is perfect shoe box size. There's a few days left of the offer if anyone wants to pick some up, only 40p.

Other bits I put in that hasn't been mentioned is Play-Doh. Woolies and The Works do packs of small tubs for a £1. The Works also has lots of really good stationary stuff cheap and has a new stand full of girlie items, eg packs of hair clips, bands, purses, bags, all £1 Some of the items are really good value.

One thing I struggle to find each year is a colouring book, that fits into a shoe box, that doesn't cost a fortune. Anyone help with that, i look for them all year

[Gizmos]

how about just printing some of these to add

http://www.coloring-book.info/coloring/

[YooHoo]

:der: You think with 2 small children I would have thought of that! Great idea, many thanks

[Gizmos]

haha they are great for kids parties as well to keep them amused ;-)

[Mrs Lady C]

Tesco do small colouring pads, small dot to dot pads and small magic painting pads for about 74p each.

[sweepy]

I am nipping into quality save today to have a look and see if any bargains there today.
sweepyxx

[mhoc]

last time I did one it was for a teenage boy as they do not get many.

Everyone likes to do the youngsters and todlers but not the older boys.

it was not too difficult, added a baseball cap that was bought during the year plus pens pencils and notebooks,scarf and gloves and some Haribo.

I also get extra gardening gloves when Tesco have the sale on the gardening stuff at the end of the summer, I think the teenage boys might even be working. Cards and dominos are also good.

[mhoc]

Last year I also put in each box one of the cloth reusable bags that are given away all over the place, thinking that they might also need a bag to carry all of their new stuff in. This year I am also putting in the ones we won from the internet draw into the teenage girls box.

[Effie]

In my box for a teenage girl
hat,scarf,gloves,socks,lypsyl,deodorant,soap,flann el,toothpaste toothbrush,moisturiser ,hair bobbles,hair brush,small mirror, writing pad,pens,felt pens,pencils, small teddy, Christmas card and sweeties .Hope this gives you some ideas. For 5/6 year old girls. Knickers, hat gloves socks ,soap,flannel,toothpaste,and toothbrush,hair bobbles ,brush,colouring book and pens,playdough,teddy,stickers pack of snap cards,sweetie( Harbro)and Christmas Card . Doesn't it leave you with such a feel good feeling especially when you watch a video of boxes being shared out.OOPS Forgot to say a filled pencil case

[mhoc]

Doing the Christmas boxes is actually the most meaningful part of the preperations for me, now my gang are all elderly world weary teenagers. I always do them around bonfire night so its all the start of the run up. My youngest is still keen to help fill the boxes and I take photos as well, the older ones are not around much but I think they still like to see what they look like before they get sent off.

Also the boxes help to keep me occupied. I lost my mum 5 years ago in the October half term so its not an easy time of the year for me. This year seems to be one of the worst. My youngest was year 7 the year it happened and the whole year goes on a bonding trip to Menai in the 1st week of November so he didnt go to the funeral, too much for him anyway, the youngest is always Nanas favourites. And this year he is at college and the whole year has gone to menai on a bonding trip so we are in a bit of a loop.

So I concerntrate now on getting my boxes ready, takes my mind off stuff.

[frexy]

Home bargains is a great shop for inexpensive and small pieces for the boxes.
Today I got nice packs of playing cards for 19p

[mhoc]

Two good scanners on today so for once I had a choice :clap2:

So Mr T took care of the value sweeties, got these that are individually wrapped, nice shiny gold paper. I take them out of the outer bag and just slot as many sweeties in the crevices as possible, keeps the contents of the box from jigging about

[sweepy]

Omg i just spent £20 in quality save got loads we are all doing them in our house. My youngest and his friend doing one and eldest and girlfriend .
sweepyxx

[obscure]

Not the cheapest of ideas but I think it is a good one for the difficult older boy box - a wind up torch or torch and radio combo.

Amazon have got a range from 2-99 upwards. Free delivery on orders over £5 on some items too.

[sweepy]

Oh thats a good idea obscure we are always looking for bits to order and it helps with free postage.
sweepyxx

[obscure]

Though we are devotees of Mr T, I have found the £1 things and party bag fillers (balloons/bouncy balls etc) MUCH better quality and value in Asda than Tesco.

[tyroleandancer]

Picked up a pocket size paint by numbers in Tesco for 97p. It is a dolphin so ideal for a girl :)

[sweepy]

I picked up a couple of ty beanies for 99p in quality save today got a dolphin and a bear bargain.
sweepyxx

[sweepy]

Next week in mirror there is 12 childrens books to collect so that might be worth doing for shoebox appeal.
sweepyxx

[frexy]

Next week in mirror there is 12 childrens books to collect so that might be worth doing for shoebox appeal.
sweepyxx

Not sure about this although they are not novels [on the no list] if they go to a non english speaking country not much good.

[Scottishnellie]

Anyone know whether it's ok to put in earrings for pierced ears? (Teenage Girl box)

I've got loads from the Claires accessories lucky bags we bought earlier this year. DD too young to have ears pierced and I don't wear earrings.

[princesskerry]

Got all the stuff ready for my shoebox, if I go into a shop and ask do they give shoeboxes away as it is for a special cause. I really thought that after we put everything away after the move I would uncover something but I have nothing suitable.
Also is it okay to put a christmas card in with a little message / picture from my boys? On the video it showed some children picking out what looked like a christmas card.

[Scottishnellie]

My local shoeshops in our towns high street are delighted to give them away. Its just your luck whether they have any left!

They were saying they are now asking customers whether they want the box or can they keep it for the people who look for them for the charity collections.

You can put a Christmas card in but its dependant which appeal you are using whether you can put personal details - I think Samaritans Purse allow but Blythswood Appeal don't.

[princesskerry]

Aah it's the Samaritans so I can then. Is the 18th Nov the latest date for these too?

[obscure]

Sorry, dumb question.
How "well stuffed" do the Samaritans Purse allow the boxes to be? I dont think the lids would stay on without the bands and they are quite heavy but I really dont want to leave anything out :(

Any advice/experience welcomed :)

[britchic4]

Sorry, dumb question.
How "well stuffed" do the Samaritans Purse allow the boxes to be? I dont think the lids would stay on without the bands and they are quite heavy but I really dont want to leave anything out :(

Any advice/experience welcomed :)

Mine have been quite well stuffed before. But if they did have to take anything out they would put it into another box so a needy child would still get it IYSWIM.

[princesskerry]

Yes I dont think I would feel too bad about that, someone elses idea of a full box could be very different to yours, so if an item of yours tops up theres a bit then so be it.
Seeing that video of the children being given the boxes again just reminds me of why I'm doing it. There were boys on there wearing things obviously meant for a girl but they were totally thrilled, makes you realise how lucky your own children really are.:love:

[Scottishnellie]

I know - my DH was moaning a bit about the amount of boxes I'm doing this year and that it 'all adds up'. I made him watch the video and explained that the total cost of ALL my boxes is less than a third of what I've saved with not buying my friends kids this year (The 6 of us collectively agreed to only do birthdays for each others kids from now on).

He went a bit glassy eyed and shut up after that ;)

[princesskerry]

Does this sound okay, I have got a shiny football (BOGOF £3 at tesco), pack of toffee's, pack of choc eclairs, pack of pens, colouring set (containing noddy colouring sheets, Noddy stickers, pencils), Halloween funny noise toy (tube that makes funny noises when you turn it - 50p in asda), little cuddly toy, toy car, little camera thing where you press the button and look through the lense and the picture changes (cant remember what they are called :doh:), soap, comb, toothpaste and toothbrush.
I was thinking of for a young boy, so do I write a age range on it or do they do that. I was going to put a shower gel in there too but thought I had read it had to be foam????????????? The box is absolutely packed but it does close.

[princesskerry]

Wanted to add had such a job getting shoeboxes. I eventually got one from my next door neighbour, but I tried Asda and Tesco, both of whom have there shoes delivered in bags so no small enough boxes. I was going to go into town tommorow and drag the boys to different shoe shops if I still had no luck.
Next year I'm going to start early and save the boxes when we buy new shoes.

[tyroleandancer]

Does this sound okay, I have got a shiny football (BOGOF £3 at tesco), pack of toffee's, pack of choc eclairs, pack of pens, colouring set (containing noddy colouring sheets, Noddy stickers, pencils), Halloween funny noise toy (tube that makes funny noises when you turn it - 50p in asda), little cuddly toy, toy car, little camera thing where you press the button and look through the lense and the picture changes (cant remember what they are called :doh:), soap, comb, toothpaste and toothbrush.
I was thinking of for a young boy, so do I write a age range on it or do they do that. I was going to put a shower gel in there too but thought I had read it had to be foam????????????? The box is absolutely packed but it does close.

sounds really good :)
No shower gel allowed
you do need to put for a boy and age range on a bit of paper
I also wrapped my box in christmas paper

[tyroleandancer]

Wanted to add had such a job getting shoeboxes. I eventually got one from my next door neighbour, but I tried Asda and Tesco, both of whom have there shoes delivered in bags so no small enough boxes. I was going to go into town tommorow and drag the boys to different shoe shops if I still had no luck.
Next year I'm going to start early and save the boxes when we buy new shoes.

Clarks always have spare boxes :)
My box was huge as it use to have size 10 mens boots in it

[Unintended Muse]

If you are doing the boxes for Samaritans Purse, you can print off the labels they use to show which sex and age range its for.

Be wary of larger boxes as they do have a size guide on the site somewhere and it states that if your box is too big, they will put the contents in with other boxes.

Find an empty medium-size shoe box, approximately 18 x 30 x 13cm, (we reserve the right to split boxes which are too large). Wrap the lid and box separately in wrapping paper.

Decide if your gift is for a boy or girl. Tick the appropriate age box on the boy or girl sticker. Stick the label to the outside of the lid – on the top right as you would a stamp on a letter. You will need to tape the label to the box
http://www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk/files/file/gift_aid_form_occ.pdf

Don't forget that this year the minimum donation has gone up to £2.50

[tyroleandancer]

If you are doing the boxes for Samaritans Purse, you can print off the labels they use to show which sex and age range its for.

Be wary of larger boxes as they do have a size quide on the site somewhere and it states that if your box is too big, they will put the contents in with other boxes.

Thanks for the info
My box didn't go to the Samaritans it went to the local Lions club

[sweepy]

I am doing my boxes now do we seal them totally or put a band round them.
sweepyxx