Giving only £2.50 will give a child in Belarus their first ever Christmas present and some much needed basic items.

For most of us it is difficult to imagine a Christmas without presents, yet for many children around the world living in destitute conditions or war-torn countries, this is reality. Many of them do not even have the basics they need for hygiene or warmth and so The Shoe Box Appeal was designed to help give children all over the world something for Christmas.

St Stephens church have been putting together shoe boxes for the appeal for around 10 years. This year they are creating 60 boxes which contain basic items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, facecloths, pens and pencils, as well as more luxury items like toys, crayons, books and hats/scarves. A charity called Samaritans Purse deliver them to the children, but St Stephens church have to pay £2.50 for post and packaging. This year, they will be delivered to Belarus in time for Christmas.

St Stephens Church are appealing for your help with funding the cost of this £2.50 per box for transport. For less than the cost of a drink in the pub you can give a child a Christmas they will never forget.

If you feel you would be able to help financially it would be greatly appreciated.  Donations of cash can be made to Pauline Hawkins at St Stephen’s Church at the 11:00am Sunday service, or cheques payable to Kirkstall St Stephen’s Mission Account sent care of Bob Masterman (Hon treasurer) at 16 Holt Park Avenue, Leeds LS16 7RA.