Dubliners deliver hope to needy children

SCHOOLS, families, communities and businesses across Dublin have helped bring great hope at Christmas to 27,196 needy children in disadvantaged areas overseas.

By taking part in the 2013 Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal, they have turned just another day in a child’s life into something special in Africa, the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.

In total, 163,513 shoeboxes were collected throughout Ireland.

According to Niall Barry, Team Hope Executive Director, receiving the shoeboxes from Ireland is the highlight of the children’s year.

“We’re very appreciative of everyone’s generosity, especially in these hard times, when there are huge demands being made on people,

? he said.

“But, on behalf of all the children who will receive shoeboxes, we want to say a huge thank you to all those who made it possible, including all our volunteers, corporate partners and drop-off points. We couldn’t do it without you.

?

In the receiving country the Team Hope network of partners are currently delivering the shoebox gifts right into a child’s hands – in hospitals, schools, shelters, churches, orphanages, community centres or family homes.

Team Hope is Ireland’s leading Christian development charity working with needy children in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and Africa.

The charity works in co-operation with the people of Ireland, and with overseas partners to make the Christmas Shoebox Appeal happen.