School Shares Shoebox Joy

Pupils at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School in Norwich learned about the Operation Christmas Child appeal during a visit from Mark and Debra Watkins. The representatives from the organization's Church Relations and Community Relations teams attended a school assembly to explain how shoeboxes filled with toys, hygiene items, and school supplies are delivered to children in need.

The Watkins explained that the appeal has delivered more than 244 million shoeboxes to over 170 countries and territories since 1990. During the assembly, students watched a video showing the journey of a shoebox. Mark Watkins noted that the ministry can complement a school's values and academic learning.

Operation Christmas Child allows local churches to share messages of God's love when distributing the boxes where permitted. The Watkins met with headteacher Felicity Hope and other staff members during the visit.