What is operation Christmas Child?
The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to provide God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, more than 178 million children in more than 150 countries have received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox. The project delivers not only the joy of what, for many kids, is their first gift ever, but also gives them a tangible expression of God’s love.
Why is it So Important?
The significance of Operation Christmas Child extends far beyond the tangible items within a shoebox:
A Message of Hope: In often dire circumstances, a simple gift can communicate a profound message of hope and love. It shows a child that they are not forgotten and that someone, somewhere, cares for them. This can be incredibly empowering and life-changing.
Meeting Basic Needs and Providing Fun: The contents of a shoebox often include essential items like toothbrushes, soap, and school supplies, which can be scarce for children in impoverished areas. Alongside these necessities, toys and games provide much-needed opportunities for play and imagination, fostering a sense of normalcy and joy.
Promoting Education: Items like pens, pencils, notebooks, and crayons can equip children to attend school and learn, opening doors to a brighter future they might not otherwise have.
Sharing the Spirit of Giving: For those who pack the shoeboxes, Operation Christmas Child provides a tangible way to participate in global outreach and teach valuable lessons about empathy, generosity, and compassion to younger generations.
Evangelism and Discipleship (for Samaritan's Purse): While the primary focus is on the gift, Samaritan's Purse also uses the opportunity to share the Gospel message with children and their families, often offering a 12-lesson discipleship program called "The Greatest Journey" to those who receive a shoebox.
How Can You Get Involved?
Participating in Operation Christmas Child is simple and rewarding:
Find a Shoebox: Start with an empty shoebox (or a plastic container of similar size).
Decide on a Gender and Age Group: Choose whether your box will be for a boy or a girl, and select an age range (2-4, 5-9, or 10-14).
Fill with Gifts: Pack your shoebox with a variety of small items, considering the child's age and gender. (Think toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and a "wow" item like a doll or soccer ball).
Include a Personal Note (Optional): Many people include a handwritten note and even a photo of themselves or their family.
Donate for Shipping: A suggested donation of $10 per shoebox helps cover shipping and project costs.
Drop Off: Take your filled shoebox to a local collection center during National Collection - National Drop Off Week is November 17 - 24, 2025
We are a drop off location!!!
