DCF was very fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in Operation Christmas Child, under the leadership of Steve Hamer who served as Area Coordinator. This is the third year DCF has been able to participate in the event run by Samaritan's Purse and sponsored by Curves. OCC was designed as a way to show the love of Jesus in a practical way by collecting festively wrapped shoeboxes filled with gifts to be shipped to children in third world and war-torn areas. Samaritan's Purse works directly with established organizations in the receiving areas to ensure the safe delivery of the boxes. Many of these children have never received any gifts in their lives. The program is most commonly promoted through schools across Ireland, however this year, DCF was also able to host a one day event at Dungarvan Shopping Centre to open the program to the public. We had pre-wrapped boxes to allow last minute shoppers the opportunity to contribute and many people brought bags of toys to help supplement boxes. The response was so generous and exciting. Some DCF members were also able to go to the warehouse to help pack the boxes for shipping. It was a great way to serve as a community, and although it was hard work, it was so worth it! We are pleased to have collected almost 600 boxes from our area. This means almost 600 children's lives will be dramatically impacted by our area alone! Thanks to everyone for their support and labors to help make this Christmas memorable for a child in need of love.
