Boxes from the Girls

A little can mean a lot

What's it all about?

Christmas 1914.  Every soldier on active service overseas received a parcel from the Queen. This was the start of a tradition with voluntary organisations in sending welfare parcels to our forces engaged in active service overseas. During the 2nd world war the British Red Cross and the WRVS sent over 5 million packages containing comfort goods such as sweets, toiletries and messages from home. This practice ceased in 1945.

When the war started in Afghanistan the Chief of General Staff requested the civilian population to support HM forces.

Westbury WI responded to this call to action with enthusiasm and have found it both rewarding and totally worthwhile.

The little we do means so much…….
‘I told my mum about your efforts and she cried’ - Corporal, Army Air Corp
‘Your efforts over Christmas were very much appreciated by the troops and had a significant effect on morale’ - 2nd Lieutenant, Army
‘I think it’s great what you girls are doing’ -  Bombardier, Army

We have been very well supported by the Royal Air Force Association and various welfare officers from local military establishments.

As no other organisations in the UK were supporting our forces in this way - Boxes from the girls has been set up by Westbury and District Women’s Institute as a national campaign to encourage other girls (or boys) to send packages.

It's not a lot - but it's a start!

'The best bit is reading the 'Thank You' letters we sometimes get back. The boys are amazed to find someone actually cares .

Would you like to know more and get involved?

Email us : boxesfromthegirls@live.co.uk