Care South’s Dorset House care
home in Poole, Dorset, has undertaken a heartwarming initiative to contribute to the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Appeal, creating five thoughtfully curated shoebox donations filled with joy for less fortunate children.
The residents of Dorset House, driven by a deep sense of compassion, joined forces to make a difference to the lives of children who may not be as fortunate during the holiday season. The project was met with enthusiasm and excitement as residents worked in pairs, carefully selecting and wrapping items for the shoeboxes.
The process of filling the shoeboxes was a collaborative effort, with staff and families of the home generously contributing a variety of items. Each shoebox was packed with care, ensuring that the contents catered to different age groups. The residents took extra precautions to include something to cuddle, something to play with and something creative in each box.
The residents approached the activity with a shared goal of bringing smiles to the faces of the children receiving the gifts.
To add a personal touch, some residents embraced the Christmas spirit early, donning festive outfits to create heartwarming postcards to add to the carefully crafted shoeboxes. During the process, residents took time to reflect on the holiday season, sharing cherished memories of past Christmases with family and expressing gratitude for the abundance in their lives. A resident at Dorset House, Dorothy, recalled her love for creating outfits and shared stories of a magnificent evening dress she once made for Christmas. Dorothy also reflected on the importance of joy, saying: “It warms my heart to know that we are making a difference in these children’s lives. Christmas is about sharing love, and this project has allowed us to do just that.”
Other residents reminisced
about a time when homemade clothes were a common tradition due to financial constraints, highlighting the significant changes in holiday traditions over the years.
Sam Baker, Activities Lead at Dorset House, added: “At Dorset House, we believe in creating a sense of community and making a positive impact. The Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Appeal aligns perfectly with our values, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause.”
Dorset House is proud to be a part of this meaningful imitative, embodying the spirit of giving and kindness that defines the holiday season. For more information on the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Appeal, visit: Landing-B | Operation Christmas Child (samaritans-purse.org.uk)
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