Christmas is the time for giving and no one knows that better than Goulburn resident Sharon Thompson.
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Three years ago, Ms Thompson was heart broken when she learnt that thousands of children celebrate Christmas without presents. So she decided to make a difference.
Joining Operation Christmas Child she, and many other Goulburnian’s, have helped make Christmas special for children struggling overseas.
“This is the only present these children will ever receive,” she said. “ And if they don’t get this, they most likely will never get anything for Christmas.”
Operation Christmas Child requires individuals, groups or families to fill a shoe box with items children might want for Christmas. Suggested gifts are categorised into clothing, school accessories or books, personal hygiene products or toys.
The shoes boxes are sent to Sydney from local towns and later shipped to several overseas countries who cannot afford or access basic utilities or products.
With large teams donating in cities all over Australia, Ms Thompson has previously reached out to organisations and schools in Goulburn to help out.
Packing the shoe box with her son every year, Ms Thompson says that this method of donation allows children to get involved and understand the act of giving.
“You’re not just sending money but personalising your gift so that the child knows who and where it comes from,” she said. She recommends people to send notes, photos and hand made gifts to add a unique touch to the shoe box.
Goulburn sent 900 boxes last year for Operation Christmas Child and Ms Thompson is confident that the record will be broken this year.
“We hear about horrible stuff on the news and sometimes the children are forgotten,” she said. “You’ll never see the gift given, but this is a simple way for you to bring children joy this Christmas.”
For more information about getting involved and what you can send contact Sharon on 0400 351 613.