Did you know that there are children in Guatemala who can’t afford the simple everyday items that we take for granted, like toothpaste and soap? Would you like to make a difference by helping out these children?
For fifteen years, Bob Jones has been working with an organization started by Homer Wilson called Friends of the Children. Wilson went to Guatemala to deliver the shoeboxes himself. Sadly, Wilson passed away. Emilek Brown, an exchange student that worked with Wilson, is now in charge of the organization. According to Mrs. Clough, Bob Jones helps send over 300 shoeboxes a year.
The Bob Jones Spanish department is asking students to donate wrapped shoeboxes filled with hygienic and school items that will be donated to Guatemalan kids in need. The shoeboxes will go to orphanages, rural villages, and to some areas in the capital of Guatemala. The children are happy to receive these boxes, because they truly need these things but can’t afford them. This is probably the only gift they receive each year.
These shoeboxes should be wrapped with Christmas paper. Who is going to receive the boxes? Choose items that will appeal to either a boy or a girl. The items should be placed inside the shoebox. A rubber band or ribbon should be placed around the box because customs will need to check the shoeboxes. There is also a five dollar fee per box for shipping. Toys and clothes can also be placed inside the boxes. The only thing that isn’t allowed is food. The last day to turn in shoeboxes to Mrs. Clough is December 14th.
Lacey Bolden said she donated a shoebox because “it’s important for them to know that people do care about them. If we have the resources to give then we should do it. It feels good to know that I made a difference in the world and that I helped a kid.” Alex Jones said, “Kids in Guatemala don’t have all the privileges we have here in America and it feels good to know that you helped out.”
These are things that can easily be found at any store for a low price. If you would like to find out more, please contact Mrs. Clough ([email protected] ) or visit Friends of the Children’s website.
