The Shoebox appeal organised by the charity Samaritans Purse which delivers Christmas gifts to disadvantaged children throughout the world is now in full swing and a number of boxes have already been delivered to the home of local organiser Janice Bawler of Hemyock along with a number of hand knitted hats and glove puppets.

“When I began organising the shoebox collection in the Culm Valley and Wellington area a number of years ago I had no idea how popular it would become” she said. “In the earlier years many hundreds of boxes were left with me. Nowadays with various schools, churches and villages in the locality organising their own collections there are probably even more going from this area. Although I do not receive as many myself people are still incredibly generous and I would like to thank everyone who is supporting this year’s appeal”

It is still not too late to take part and information can be downloaded from www.samaritanspurse.uk.com or are available from Janice Bawler, 4 South View, Hemyock, Devon EX15 3SQ (SAE please). Anyone taking part is reminded that boxes need to be at the above address before 12th November.

The work of the charity and the blessing of the shoeboxes will feature at the Family Service to be held at St Mary’s Church Hemyock on Sunday 4th November to which all are welcome
 
Janice Bawler

Photo shows Janice Bawler with some of the shoeboxes which have been delivered to her house