Operation Christmas Child

Every year Samaritans Purse collects boxes for a charity they call Operation Christmas Child.  For those who don't know what it is- you take a standard size shoebox or plastic box of the same size and fill it with gift items for a needy child.  We usually do toys, candy, personal hygiene items, warm socks, scarves or gloves.  This year we also added a canvas tote bag to each box. 

You can enclose a note with your gift and sometimes the children will write back.  (We have never had a child write back yet though.) 

Then we pray for each child that will receive our boxes.  In countries where it is not prohibited by law, Samaritans Purse also gives them a book when they receive their box.  It is written in their language and tells them about the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ.


We usually allow each of our children to do a box for their own age/gender.  But this year the children talked and were concerned maybe nobody would pick the oldest boys and girls so we did a box for each gender and age category.


Here are the children packing their boxes-

Kylie is not pictured above because she was recovering from getting ear tubes when we took the pictures.  But here are the things she picked out for her box.

Feel better soon Kylie.

Drop off Day

If you have never filled a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child but are interested in doing it next year just click on the verse below for more information.  It is such a tangible way for children to help other children.

Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you.
Deuteronomy 16:17