Youth Council spread Christmas cheer in the shape of a shoebox

Burdekin Shire Youth Council is helping to spread Christmas cheer even further this year by sending gifts to disadvantaged children in a humble shoebox.

Burdekin Shire Youth Council Mayor Sarah McDonnell said the group is taking part in Operation Christmas Child- a project run by Samaritan’s Purse that partners local organisations with churches in developing nations.

“Operation Christmas Child is a project which is dedicated to providing children in third world countries with presents for Christmas,” Miss McDonnell said.

“They reach out to other organisations, such as Youth Council, and they collect gift boxes so other children can experience Christmas like we do here.”

Every shoebox is filled with something to wear, something to play with, something for school, something to love, something special and something for personal hygiene.

Miss McDonnell said the donated gifts included teddy bears, stickers, toiletries, books and pencils.

“In Australia, we’re so lucky and for other children to experience a little tiny piece of that from a shoebox that they haven’t seen before with all different objects that will make them smile- it’s just the feeling that you’ve helped out and that the spirit lives on in different countries.”

The boxes have now been forwarded to East Ayr State School, where students will collect even more boxes before donating the packages later this month.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said “I thank the East Ayr State School Parents and Citizens committee for allowing the Youth Council to be a part of this wonderful project.

“Christmas really is about giving. It’s wonderful to see our Youth Council members demonstrate such selflessness and generosity for others.”