Day 15 - so busy we finished early!

Have I mentioned recently, that it's been busy at the warehouse ??



Well, today was no exception and quite possibly we benefited from the strike action with a few extra volunteers joining us. Here's a few "busy warehouse" photos to set the scene.

We're not quite finished yet, but a few words of thanks are due - first thank you to everyone who has brought in fillers over the last few days, the response has been great and it's meant that we have been able to continue sending out the fair boxes that we all desire.
Also thank you to all those people who have wrapped boxes throughout the last 3 weeks.  A good supply of wrapped boxes is required for those boxes which arrive uncovered, completely wrapped or need re-wrapping after the donation or tracking label has been removed.


As the weeks have progressed our supply of "easily-packed-in-a-shoebox" soft toys has understandably run down and we're finding ourselves left with the "can-be-packed-if-squashed-and-someone-holds-the lid" category. Some naturally, are more squashable than others and some unfortunately, just won't go.  Here's Vanessa with the Orang-u-tang that did and Wendy with the lamb that didn't (but don't worry he's found himself a new home on Wendy's sofa!) For those lovable but large creatures, another homing option is our sales table, the proceeds of which go towards the transport of the shoeboxes.



Talking of soft toys, they are so important to the children who receive the shoeboxes that they deserve their own filler of the day spot. From tiny keychain animals to fluffy pink mice, from large teddies to soft baby dolls, we accept them all, but on the strict proviso that they are clean and look new. In fact experience has shown that the vast majority of soft toys survive and really benefit from a dip in the washing machine, a day in the airing cupboard, a brush up and a new ribbon or bow. They don't have to be expensive, car boot sales are great hunting grounds. But what is saved in money should be spent in time, to get these furry friends as good as they can possibly be. For theirs is a very special job.

One role that hasn't been covered yet on the blog is Carolyn's role of Area Co-ordinator / Day-to-day Warehouse Manager. On paper, it may look like a practical based organisational role co-ordinating with head office, volunteers, drivers, pick-up points and other warehouses, but that only covers a small part of what Carolyn actually does. Carolyn's real strength comes from her strong faith and leadership style, a style that she has developed over the years. She aims (and we believe, succeeds) to make everyone feel welcome, included and accepted for whatever skills, talents and abilities that they have. Her passion is obvious to all through her thrice daily talks at break times, and her desire is to give these children, in the remotest parts of forgotten lands, a voice that can be heard and listened to. But just as the children far away benefit from the charity, Carolyn is aware of the influence through God's power that the warehouse operation has in its own right to touch people's lives, whether Christian or not; part of her enjoyment is sharing the journey with an ever growing OCC community.




          Different sides of Carolyn's job -
        administration, presenting
          and team work

And finally, we have our volunteer from Saturday who didn't escape the camera today. Mel Sneller is an active member of St Saviours Church and has been involved with shoeboxes for a number of years. It is her 4th year at the warehouse and she regularly comes down throughout the three weeks, helping out with training, sorting and, of course, checking. Like many of us, she admits to withdrawal symptoms once the campaign is over, but consoles herself with collecting filler items throughout the year. Mel continues to be inspired by the stories from the distribution trips and says her motivation is knowing that she is helping to bring love and joy to so many needy children.

Mel at the checking table

And Ted? Well, having been seen in most areas and had his paws if not his nose in most activities, he was found today, happily checking boxes on the table with June. Good work Ted, not many to go now!

See you tomorrow!