The Romanian Aid Foundation
Joy in a Box
Introduction
In the late Spring each year we launch our 'Joy in a Box' Appeal for the following Christmas. The Joy in a Box Appeal for Christmas 2009 was again very successful, which means that last Christmas we were able to give some 2,300 gift boxes to people in the area of Dorohoi in the north-east corner of Romania. Many of these boxes have been prepared by supporters in the UK whilst others are made up in Dorohoi from bulk supplies of suitable items or using funds that supporters designated for that use.
Our team in Romania gives out most of the boxes to those who are registered for the normal aid distribution programme. This has proved to be satisfactory in recent years, with the most needy getting priority, but also we make special deliveries to schools and people with particular difficulties. Once again, families in the villages were included in the distribution of the Christmas boxes. There was a lot of joy and happiness as the boxes are opened and we are happy to convey the thanks that are due to those who prepared these gifts.
We have adopted the title of 'Joy in a Box' for our Christmas gift box appeal. Apart from reducing confusion with other shoebox appeals, this title more accurately represents the effects of the gift boxes. Poverty and unemployment are still widespread in the rural areas of Romania and, for many families, these gifts may be the only ones that they receive at Christmas. I usually join the Romanian team involved with the distribution and we are often overwhelmed by the reactions of the people. My words simply cannot describe the joy on their faces as the children open their boxes.
Each box means so much to those who have so little.
Last year, many schools chose to use this appeal as the basis of pupils' projects during the summer holidays. This year we will close the appeal by mid-November, to allow schools time to collect and dispatch the gift boxes after the Autumn half-term. Of course, 'Joy in a Box' is not limited to schools - many other groups and individuals prepare gift boxes each year.
If you would like to register your interest in the 'Joy in a Box' Appeal, please print out and complete the tear-off slip at the bottom of this letter and return to us at the address below or e-mail us (shoebox@roaf.org). There are more details on the other pages of this site, or you can request our printed information pack, containing the A4 colour poster, pre-printed contents list and dispatch labels, and full instructions.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your interest and support.
Steve Humphreys
Technical Co-ordinator
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To the Romanian Aid Foundation, 179 Albert Road, Horley, Surrey RH6 7HS.
Please would you register my interest in the 'Joy in a Box' Appeal.
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