Advent calendars are a much-loved tradition in the run up to Christmas but the reverse advent calendar is becoming increasingly popular and is a great way to highlight the festive season as a time of giving — not just receiving.
What is a reverse advent calendar?
Traditionally, advent calendars are used to count down the days of Advent in the run up to Christmas. The first day of advent falls between 27th November and 3rd December, but Advent calendars generally start on 1st December and run until Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Most calendars contain a series of small gifts, chocolate, or something to help us think about the Advent journey.
The reverse Advent calendar focuses on giving something instead of receiving – Instead of receiving a gift, those taking part in a reverse calendar DONATE an item each day.
At the end of advent, the calendar will result in a collection of 24 goods that can be given to someone in need of some Christmas cheer.
This simple Advent idea encourages us to think of others as we wait to celebrate Jesus’ birthday and is an easy way to serve others during Advent.
Who will receive the things I donate?
We will pass your donations on to the three organisations that we are working with, to help refugees from Ukraine and elsewhere. Your goods will be sent to where they are most needed, either within the Zurich area or to people in other countries, such as Romania, Poland, Latvia and Ukraine.
How can I make a reverse Advent Calendar?
Pick out a sturdy basket, box or bag and fill it with donations.
Add one item a day or purchase several items every time you shop.
Collect 25 items from your whole family or 25 items from each member in your family. Start collecting the items in late November or wait until the beginning of December
What do I do with my donations?
Bring them to St Andrew’s after a church service and leave them under the Christmas Tree…
…We’ll do the rest!
Many thanks in advance for supporting this cause – Your donations will be greatly appreciated!
What sort of things can I put in a reverse Advent Calendar?
- Toiletries*: Shower gel, hair shampoo, body lotion; Toothbrushes, toothpaste; Shaving foam, disposable razors, aftershave; Women’s sanitary articles, new hairbrushes
- Hats & Gloves
- New warm socks
- Sugar, salt, cooking oil & dried herbs
- Tinned food & pasta or rice
- Tea & Coffee
- Small children’s toys, pens, pencils & colouring books, Lego, puzzles, craft kits
- Small gifts e.g Paint brushes, water colour paints, embroidery silks, knitting wool, art & drawing books
- Baby & Children’s clothes
- Baby wipes & nappies
- Baby’s dummies*
*Only new & unopened please!
For an up-to-date list of items that we can pass on, please visit our webpage: https://standrewszurich.church/ukraine
**Please ensure that all items are of new or excellent quality**
