Take a ride for shoeboxes

Published 8:10 pm Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Riders at last year’s Shoebox Ride prepare to hit the road in support of Operation Christmas Child. This year’s event is coming Saturday.

Riders at last year’s Shoebox Ride prepare to hit the road in support of Operation Christmas Child. This year’s event is coming Saturday.

Motorcyclists are invited for a ride on what is expected to be a beautiful Saturday to benefit Operation Christmas Child.

The “Shoebox Ride,” the fourth annual event organized by Raiford Baker, will depart from Somerton Friends Meeting, 5239 Quaker Drive, at 10:30 a.m. this Saturday. Registration begins at 9.

“It looks like we’re going to have beautiful weather,” said Amanda Smith, Baker’s daughter. “It’s a great cause. Our goal is every year to improve to make a few more shoeboxes.”

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Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, collects millions of shoeboxes filled with gift and hygiene items each year and distributes them to children in impoverished nations.

“That’s our motivation,” Smith said. “We love the idea more children can get these gift-filled shoeboxes.”

Saturday’s event is more than just a motorcycle ride. Light breakfast will be served beforehand, and lunch featuring Linwood’s barbecue will be served after the conclusion of the ride. Also on tap after the ride are music by Danzingo, door prizes, cornhole, T-shirts for sale and other activities.

“All of the profit supports Operation Christmas Child,” Smith said, adding that many local businesses have donated door prizes.

“You get a door prize with your registration fee,” she said. “You can buy extra if you want.”

A shoebox packing party will be held at a later date, which has not been set yet.

The costs are $20 for a single rider (with a $10 discount for women) and $5 per passenger. Lunch is included in the cost.

For more information, call 618-1949 or visit www.shoeboxride.com.