The city of Norfolk has just welcomed a new member to the local team of Operation Christmas Child, a Christian charity that spreads joy and happiness to children all around the world through shoeboxes filled with gifts. Tracy Niemann has joined Debra and Mark Watkins as a Church and Community Relations team member for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child (OCC), and together they will work towards encouraging more people to get involved in the charity’s mission. This team is part of a larger network of dedicated volunteers across the UK, comprising Christians of all denominations, as well as people of other faiths and none, who work tirelessly throughout the year to make a difference in the lives of children in need.
The charity’s mission is a simple yet powerful one: to provide gift-filled shoeboxes to children in over 160 countries, bringing hope and joy to those who need it most. Last year, the UK team processed and sent an incredible 241,015 shoeboxes, a feat that was made possible by the hard work and dedication of volunteers like Debra, Mark, and now Tracy. These volunteers play a vital role in the charity’s work, from driving and collecting shoebox gifts from donors to checking the boxes for customs compliance before they are sent to children around the world. With so many ways to get involved, there’s something for everyone who wants to make a difference. As Mark and Debra have found, being part of the OCC team is not just about volunteering; it’s about being part of a community that shares a common goal of spreading love and kindness to children in need.
Tracy’s journey to joining the OCC team is a testament to the power of prayer and community. After going through the application process with Trish Ellse, the regional manager for OCC East of England, Tracy is now undergoing online training to become a fully-fledged member of the team. For Tracy, joining the team is a blessing and an opportunity to serve God through this amazing ministry. Debra and Mark are thrilled to have Tracy on board, and they’ve already experienced the benefit of her prayerful support and messages of hope and encouragement. As they continue to build up their team in Norfolk, they’re keen to welcome more like-minded individuals who share their passion for the charity’s mission.
Debra and Mark’s enthusiasm for the charity’s work is infectious, and they’re eager to share their experience with others. They’ve found the support from Samaritan’s Purse to be prayerful and encouraging, and they’ve formed lasting friendships with like-minded individuals across Norfolk. For those who are interested in getting involved, Mark and Debra’s message is clear: “The time you give is what works for you, what we ask is that you pray and seek what God wants you to do and that you come with a heart that has a love for this ministry.” Whether it’s volunteering, praying, or simply spreading the word about the charity’s work, there are countless ways to make a difference. Those interested in learning more can contact Mark and Debra at [email protected] or visit the charity’s website at www.samaritans-purse.org.uk.
As the team looks to the future, they’re excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. On Saturday, September 6, there will be a project leaders workshop in Norwich, which promises to be a great opportunity to learn more about the charity’s work and how to get involved. The workshop will provide a chance to meet like-minded individuals, learn about the charity’s mission, and discover ways to make a difference in the lives of children around the world. With Tracy now on board, the team is poised to make an even greater impact in the community, and they’re inviting others to join them on this journey. As Tracy so eloquently put it, “What a blessing to be invited to join Mark and Debra’s OCC team as God knew I needed to be serving Him through this amazing ministry.”
In a world that often seems overwhelming and divided, the work of Operation Christmas Child is a powerful reminder of the impact that ordinary people can have when they come together with a common purpose. Through their simple yet profound acts of kindness, the charity’s volunteers are bringing hope and joy to children in need, and inspiring others to do the same. As Debra, Mark, and Tracy continue to build up their team in Norfolk, they’re inviting others to join them on this journey of spreading love and kindness to children around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just looking for a way to make a difference, the team at Operation Christmas Child would love to hear from you. Who knows? You might just find that you’re part of something truly special – a community of people who are changing the world, one shoebox at a time.
