Pictured from left to right: Balazs, Charlie, and Paul

Paul Algeo has served as Blythswood’s church engagement officer for south and central Scotland since 2024. In December he helped to distribute shoeboxes in the Cahul district of southern Moldova. “I couldn’t understand one word this lady was saying but her gratitude was obvious,” he remembers. “She was so frail and wanted to take my hand and squeezed it tight.

There is real poverty in these rural villages. As we entered one, we saw a man using a traditional well sweep – a long pole balanced on a crossbeam, with a rope and bucket attached to one end. Once the bucket reached the surface, he secured the pole before collecting the water. It’s too easy to assume that everyone living in Europe has access to the basic amenities that we take for granted.

“It was encouraging to see how our partners care for people who were clearly struggling to meet even their most basic needs. Your shoebox gifts were so much appreciated. I only speak English, but acts of love, kindness and compassion are understood by everyone. Love doesn’t need translation.”

Paul has now taken on the task of managing Blythswood’s 2026 Shoe Box Appeal. “I’ve seen for myself the emotional impact made by these presents,” he says. “Fill a box for Blythswood in 2026 and you can really touch the heart of a stranger in need.”