Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Oct 20/00) - Some things don't get any respect.

Take shoeboxes, for instance. The entire reason for their existence is to contain something until reaching a buyer's home, at which time the shoes are taken out and the box is discarded.

The Anglican Church Youth Group has found a new use for the lowly shoebox. Members plan to soon send at least 100 of them overseas.

These boxes will be full of toys, as well as items such as sunglasses and teddy bears. Their destination will be children who would otherwise not receive anything for Christmas.

The Anglican youth have been busy filling boxes themselves and have been asking people to join in. The youth will pick up others' boxes this Friday evening (boxes can also be dropped off at the church).

Tanya Snowshoe is one of the youth group members taking part.

"It's fun," Snowshoe said, pointing out that it's for a good cause. The 10-year-old said this is the first time she's been involved in something like this, and that she would do so again.

Thea Rogers agreed the cause is important. She has been getting others to fill their own shoeboxes.

Another participant, Tracey Smallgeese, pointed out, "We're doing this for people who don't have any presents."

Jodine Martin, Anglican Youth Group leader, said Operation Christmas Child is put on by Samaritan's Purse. She explained the shoeboxes from Inuvik will be sent to the Baptist Church in Hay River, which is the drop off point for the Northwest Territories.