West Dunbartonshire groups hope to spread Christmas joy

Oct 3 2008 by Tina Kemp, Lennox Herald (main ed)

GROUPS, churches and individuals in West Dunbartonshire are being urged to back a campaign to Bring Christmas joy to children in Eastern Europe and Africa.

Last year people from Dumbarton, Alexandria, Balloch and Helensburgh took part in Operation Christmas Child which collects gift-filled shoeboxes to distribute to needy children.

Regional manager, Chris Thomson, said: “Many schools, community organisations, churches, businesses and individuals throughout West Dunbartonshire took part last year and donated shoeboxes full of presents, which meant so much to the children who received them – they were thrilled.

"Our aim is to keep this terrific effort going in 2008.”

Anyone wishing to take part should visit the website at www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk or contact the helpline on 0870 011 2002.