If
you’re new here, maybe you’re asking, what is an Operation Christmas Child
shoebox? I still get that question when I check out with eighteen boxes of
crayons or a dozen miniature cars. It’s an opportunity to share what I’m doing
with the materials. I love to do so.
Since
1993, more than 244 million Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes have been
distributed by Samaritan’s Purse around the world. They go to impoverished
nations, war-torn areas, places hit by natural disasters, really, anywhere
there is a need. These shoeboxes contain hygiene items, school supplies, toys, and
fun things to put a smile on the face of a child facing difficulty. And each
child is offered the opportunity to attend “The Greatest Journey” Bible study
where they are introduced to Jesus. I’ve used this material myself with
children and found it excellent. Sometimes entire families come to know the
Lord because of these simple gifts. I love the verse they have with their mission statement: "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these" (Mark 10:14).
To pack a box, you’ll need a shoebox covered with Christmas wrap or a purchased plastic one (We use a clear plastic one). Attach a label which can be downloaded at the Operation Christmas Child site. Select an age range, then just follow the suggestions, and find a drop-off location near you. There is a shipping fee which needs to be included in the box.
Here's what
we packed for a 5–9-year-old girl this year:
A
wow baby doll, washcloth, comb, soap, toothbrush, pencils, sharpener, erasers, crayons,
coloring book, composition book, stickers, stamps, top, scissors, colorful bag, folder, hair barrettes, hair bow, and ponytail holders.
What
we packed for a 5–9-year-old boy:
Wow
soccer ball (deflated and held with rubber bands, soccer balls are so desired
around the world), pump, needles, toy car (also highly desirable), top, scissors, stickers, composition book, folder, crayons, pencils, erasers, sharpener, coloring book,
washcloth, soap, toothbrush, decorated bag, and comb.
Sometimes,
we do the essentials and put things in until the lid won’t close. Just make
sure you include toys, school supplies, and toiletry items. Our boxes are
different every year because we see what we find on sale in after-holiday sales
and adjust accordingly. By shopping throughout the year and grabbing bargains,
we can pack more boxes.
When
I’m packing a box, I try to picture the child who will open it and imagine the
delight on their face when they lift the lid. Try to make your box as cheery as
possible and don’t forget what is called the “Wow” toy—a five-dollar toy sure
to delight. And most importantly, pray for the children who will receive these
boxes.
If
you have a Hobby Lobby near you, you may also pick up a brochure there. And if this
is hitting you at a busy time, please consider making a donation to cover the
cost of a box.
My
sister partners with me in packing a couple of dozen boxes, and we hope to have
our finished this week. Yay!!
For
more information and stories about how these shoeboxes have affected the lives
of those who receive them. You may go HERE.
Also, if you're looking for a Christmas Gift, I have a story in a new Christmas collection just released from Grace Publishing, The Greatest Gift. All the proceeds from this collection go to Samaritan's Purse. Here if you'd like to know more.