Dunstable company saves the day by enabling Christmas Shoeboxes to be packed

A plant and machinery hire business in Dunstable has donated the use of a scissor lift to the Christmas Shoebox project, Operation Christmas.

The loan from Star Platforms enabled the charity to install heating in their Tonbridge warehouse where already thousands of shoebox gifts have been received – filled with school supplies, hygiene items and fun toys – and are being checked and sent to vulnerable children around the world.

Due to the national lockdown, Operation Christmas Child’s digital offering of packing a tailored and personalised shoebox online has boomed, and thanks to Star Platforms, volunteers will also be able to pack up every box donated.

Bryan Freeman, sales director at Star Platforms, said: “While the pandemic endures, we must continue to remember the most vulnerable in society, whether they are in our local area or in tough circumstances around the world.

"It was our pleasure to help a charity who want to bring joy to children across the globe through the small offering of a Christmas Shoebox. We can all do our little bit in this difficult time.”

Director of Operation Christmas Child, Nick Cole, said: “The pandemic has once again highlighted the importance of children’s mental and physical health.

"The concern for children across the world, and the importance that they need to feel seen and loved this year is more apparent than ever.

"We rely on the generosity of organisations like Star Platforms playing a part in ensuring children are given the necessary support in the face of all they have experienced this year.”

Bedfordshire residents are encouraged to continue packing shoeboxes to send to vulnerable children around the world, the national collection week for physical boxes has been moved, the shoeboxes can now be dropped off between December 5, and December 14. Find your local drop off point here.

But individuals can also pack a shoebox online, through the charity’s website. For more information visit: www.shoeboxonline.org.uk​

Shoebox Online gives people in the UK the opportunity to pack a tailored and personalised shoebox with age appropriate, safe, fun and special gifts for the child who will receive them, as well as offering them the chance to write a personal message to the recipient.