FOR the second year running, global workplace provider Regus with centres in Exeter is supporting a Christmas campaign which sends present-filled shoeboxes to needy children in developing and war-torn countries.

The 2 Regus centres will be local drop off points from the third to the 18th of November for the 2014 “Operation Christmas Child” shoebox appeal. Run in conjunction with the Samaritan’s Purse charity, the appeal involves filling shoeboxes with toys and gifts to send to children overseas in refugee camps, orphanages, homeless shelters and impoverished neighbourhoods.

Steve Purdy, Managing Director at Regus, comments: “The Shoebox Appeal is easy, fun, and brings incredible joy to children who are in real poverty or hardship.

"Last year other local workplaces and schools supported us by filling shoeboxes with small gifts for children who have probably never received a present before.

"In total, Regus collected 5,000 shoeboxes and we hope to do even better this year. Please bring the shoeboxes into one of our business centres by 18th November.”

Shoeboxes can be dropped off at the Regus centres at Exeter Business Park and The Senate in Exeter from Monday 3rd November to Tuesday 18th November on weekdays between 9am and 5pm.

Nearly 300 Regus business centres in the UK are taking part in the initiative.

Regus operates a global network of flexible, modern work spaces including business lounges, meeting rooms and touch-down desks.

To find your nearest drop-off point visit: www.regus.co.uk. How to pack your Christmas shoebox: Remember to make your box both fun and educational! All shoebox items should be new and can contain gifts such as: Toys: cuddly toy, tennis ball, finger puppet, jigsaw, yo-yo, skipping rope, small musical instrument. For boys: toy trucks and cars; for girls: dolls, hair accessories etc. but no war-related items.

Educational supplies: pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser, colouring book, notepad, picture or puzzle book, chalk, pencil case, stickers etc.

Hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, comb, hair clips, bar of soap, flannel etc.

Other items: Sweets except chocolate and biscuits (sell by date to be at least March 2015), gloves, scarf, sunglasses, hats, etc.