Hey y’all! Today is my birthday and I could not think of a better way to celebrate than with Operation Christmas Child during their National Collection Week! Each year I look forward to making a shoebox stuffed with gifts for children, and Operation Christmas Child then brings them to underserved areas around the world. These shoeboxes function not only as presents for the children but also as a way to share the Gospel of Jesus. Putting together the boxes brings so much joy to the kids – and me!
Operation Christmas Child (OCC) has been my favorite way to give back over the years. If you are interested, I have put together a little information on this organization and how you can fill your own shoebox to be delivered to a child who otherwise may not receive any gifts.
What is Operation Christmas Child?
OCC is part of the Christian Organization, Samaritan’s Purse, that focuses on helping the needs of people around the world and sharing the Gospel of Jesus. Since 1993, OCC has delivered over 135 million shoeboxes, stuffed with gifts and Biblical material, to children in over 150 countries around the world!
How old are the children that receive the shoeboxes?
The children are ages 2-14. When packing a shoebox you decide if you would like to pack for a boy or girl. Then, choose the age range of the child, ages 2-4, 5-9, 10-14. All ages are in need, but generally the oldest age group is in highest demand.
What is National Collection Week?
This year, National Collection Week is from November 14-21. It is a week where there are over 5,000 drop-off locations around the world. So if you make a shoebox this week, there’s likely a place near you to bring your shoebox. Some locations will still be available after this week, as well. Many churches will be doing shoebox drives and have supplies on hand. My church, Watermark in Dallas, usually does their drive in early December.
Where do I get the shoebox and drop it off?
You can use any shoebox, cardboard or plastic. I prefer the plastic “shoeboxes” that have the lid because it doubles as a durable storage container for the child to keep. There are several drop off locations currently. Search the OCC map for the location closest to you.
Can I find out where my shoebox was delivered?
Yes! Each shoebox requires a $7 donation for shipping and handling. If you print and complete the shipping label you will be notified on the country where your box was delivered.
What goes inside of the shoeboxes?
The shoeboxes are filled with small toys, personal hygiene items, school supplies and, preferably, information that shares information on Jesus! The specifics are up to you.
Often we get a small group of people and all go out together to “fill our boxes” at the store. It’s fun to do with friends and kids.
More suggestions for filling shoeboxes:
- Sports gear – deflated balls (I gave each box one of these last year), baseball and glove, etc…
- Small Dolls
- Card games – playing cards, Uno, etc..
- Musical instruments – small xylophone and harmonica
- Markers and crayons
- Coloring books
- Gloves and hats
- Christian book (small Bible, stories of the Bible or activity book)
- Hygiene items – non-liquid items like toothbrushes, washcloths or brushes
- Small cosmetic items – chapstick or small mirror
- Accessories – barretts, hair clips, headbands
- DIY projects and crafts
These notebooks are easy to make and perfect to slide into a shoebox.
Simply take a decorative piece of card stock and computer paper (about 10 sheets of 8×10″ computer paper). Cut them in half across the shorter side, so you have two stacks of 8×5″ papers. Fold each stack in half, creating books that are 4×5″. Use hole puncher and punch two holes in the folds. Bind together with twine.
A collection of items used for shoeboxes for our 2015 shoeboxes. Last year we did the older boy age group, as they tend to receive the least amount of gifts.
Where do I go if I want more information?
Go to OCC’s website for FAQ, extra information and suggestions. See their Youtube channel for videos. Several churches work with OCC during the Christmas season and do their own drive. If you are in the Dallas area, Watermark usually does their OCC drive in early December. They provide boxes, labels and a drop-off site.
I hope you enjoy Operation Christmas Child as much as I do! It’s truly a joy to help out children and know that you are spreading the Gospel in the process! There’s no better gift than the love of our Heavenly Father!
Live your life joyfully so and God bless,
Ashley
