Cyprus Mail - article by Bejay Browne 29/10/16
THE Gift of Love appeal which sees the public fill hundreds of shoeboxes with Christmas gifts and raise cash for needy children and their families in Paphos, has been launched again this year, despite the closure of the Solidarity charity.
Mikka Heaney and Dikla Smith
Volunteer organisers of the appeal worked closely with the now defunct charity for the last couple of years, helping thousands of families over the festive season.
Although Solidary closed its doors earlier this year, as its operation was no longer ‘viable’ due to a reduction in numbers of those in need, Dikla Smith and Mikka Heaney, both mothers, agreed there was still a need to ensure children received gifts this year.
Currently, Paphos municipality’s welfare department is preparing a list of children from underprivileged families who will receive help from the appeal. “I expect the number to reach around 600 children this year. It’s important to us that every child has something to open and we would love the public to get involved,” Smith told the Mail.
Mikka Heaney said children of needy families from surrounding villages would be included as well.
“Solidarity may have closed, but the kids are still there, they can’t be forgotten. This is about the spirit of Christmas, it’s the time of year for giving and every child should receive a gift.”
This year, bespoke shoe boxes are being made and will be available from drop off and collection points across Paphos for a small fee of one euro, making it easier for the public, said Smith.
Boxes must be clearly marked whether they are for boys or girls and the age category and the gifts must be of a suitable size to fit into a shoebox. Smith said that each shoebox contains around 15 euros worth of treats which vary, depending on the age. “Usually, we suggest that each box contains items such as a toy and chocolate, colouring pens or pencils, bangles, or a top, as well as practical things like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, socks or a scarf.”
The age categories cover a two year span, such as 0-2 years, 2-4 years and so on. Each box should be clearly labelled whether it’s for a boy or girl and the age group it’s suitable for. Boxes will be available from the second week in November until December 15, but this may be extended, said Heaney.
Smith said that a charity tournament is also being organised at ‘Olympico’ football pitch in Paphos on November 20 for teams of 6-13 year olds, she said. There will also be a fair and food and drinks.
“There will be a charge of three euros for each player and all of the money raised will go to Gift of Love,” she said.
In addition, the volunteers are appealing for delivery drivers who have trucks as presents this year will be taken to schools, halls and community centres.
The drop off and collection points are Peter Morton, Revolution Hairdressers, Aphrodite Brewery, Akme Securitas, Yiamas Hair Salon, Young Stars, Spa Tonic and Revival Fashion.
For information call Dikla Smith on 97 789099, Mikka Heaney 96 462558.
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/GiftOfLovePaphos/
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