THE national Rotary Shoebox Scheme provides packages for the unfortunate children and foster parents in the infamous orphanages of eastern Europe.

Supported again this year by Chepstow’s club members, parcels were delivered to 12 schools in the area and over the term they fill the boxes with articles for the children or their carers and parents.

Items include things as simple as a bar of soap, a toothbrush, a soft toy, a notepad and pencil, and then they write their name on the outside and to whom it is intended, such as ‘young girl’ or ‘older lady;’ because the Rotary tries not to forget the elderly who care for many of these poor children.

The boxes are then collected by club members and shipped direct to Romania or Bulgaria where they are distributed by the Rotarians.

The club says: “We believe that in this way, with the guidance of their teachers, our children gain some appreciation of others who are severely deprived, many of which are also mentally ill.  And, as we approach Christmas we are all reminded of those less fortunate than ourselves.”

The Chepstow & District Rotary Club has collected no less than 580 filled shoeboxes this year and these will be loaded for despatch this coming week.  Rotary members wish to extend a big thank you to all the local schools that have supported their initiative. 

If you are interested in supporting Rotary with this and other worthwhile community projects, visit chepstowrotary.org.uk for details.

Learn more about the project at www.rotaryshoebox.org.