One shoebox is all you need to make a difference this Christmas.
For 21 years, almost 10 million children living in desperate situations around the world have received boxes from Operation Christmas Child (OCC). Typically, boxes contain school supplies, hygiene products and small toys.
In Regina, Curves Women’s Gym and Fitness Centre has three drop-off locations around the city. This is the first year they are accepting donations from both their members and the general public.
“(OCC) approached us this year and I thought this was a no-brainer,” explained owner Tracey Thompson.
Thompson had seen the support by her members and saw the benefit in being more accessible this year.
“If we can help somebody else, that is all the benefit we need.”
Savannah Dinsmore and her boyfriend, Kris Klein, will be packing boxes this season.
Dinsmore, who sent boxes through OCC years ago as a Girl Guide, said she felt a need to get involved again.
“Weirdly enough, I actually had a dream about it. So, I thought maybe that’s a sign that I should do it this year and hopefully make some kid’s Christmas a bit better than it probably would be without it.”
Klein, who has never sent a box before, agreed.
“Something to just go out of your way to maybe put a smile on a child’s face around Christmas time. It’s so much about giving back to somebody,” he said.
In 2013, Saskatchewan gave back by packing 29,654 boxes. Last year, Curves packed six SUV vehicles full.
“This year we have sent out over 100 boxes in the three locations,” said Thompson who is expecting last minute drop-offs near the end of the week.
“We just love doing this...everybody deserves a piece of Christmas.”
The organization’s national drop-off week runs from Nov. 17 to 23. Northgate Mall, Rosewood Park Alliance Church, Hillsdale Baptist Church, Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse and Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region are also available for drop-off locations.
