Heart-warming gesture
Kind-hearted parishioners pack hundreds of gifts for kids in need overseas
IT speaks volumes for the district that in these times of financial trouble, the people of Inverclyde continue to do their bit for those less fortunate.
The cost of living crisis is here to stay for the immediate future and many are struggling to get by, but every day we are reporting on organisations and individuals doing their bit to help good causes.
The latest group to defy the harsh economic climate to continue their charity work is Hamilton Bardrainney Church in Port Glasgow.
Members of the congregation filled 250 shoeboxes packed full of toys which will be sent to kids in war-torn countries and those affected by famine or natural disaster.
The haul is double the amount gathered last year and it’s heartwarming to see such generosity of spirit during these difficult times.
CARING churchgoers have rallied round to fill 251 shoeboxes packed full of toys to spread some festive joy.
Members of Hamilton Bardrainney Church in Auchenbothie Road in Port Glasgow threw themselves into the Samaritan’s Purse UK - Operation Christmas Child appeal.
These gifts will be sent to children overseas, some in war-torn countries who are experiencing poverty, famine or natural disaster.
Elder David McLellan said: “We have been overwhelmed by donations.
“We collected 150 last year so that is 100 more this year, which is amazing considering the situation the country is in. “People have been very kind, they have really rallied around.
“We have boxes for boys and girls with ages written on them, so we send suitable toys and gifts.
“They are small things but it will make a big difference.
“These may be the only gifts these children will receive.
“The boxes go all over the world - some of the children who will get them have gone through terrible experiences, war and poverty.
“We watched a film from the charity and the look of these children’s faces says it all.”
David said that the congregation were only to happy to help as they have been taking part in the appeal for eight years now.
He said: “Some people donated money and others toys.”
It costs £5 to send each box and since 1990, more than 186 million children in over 160 countries have benefited from the campaign.