Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan’s Purse sends gift-filled Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to children in need around the world together with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Here's how to help:
- Pick up a shoebox (or purchase one of your own)
- Fill it with gifts
- Return it to the church by November 9
Gift-filled Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes are delivered together with the Good News of Jesus Christ as expressions of God’s immense love for a child.
So, be sure to make them …
FUN: Include a quality “wow” item to delight the child, such as …
- Soccer ball with pump
- Doll
- Stuffed animal
FULL: To fill empty spaces, add school supplies and personal care items, such as …
- Pens, pencils, crayons, and notebooks
- Sunglasses
- Flashlights
PERSONALIZED: Make sure every shoebox is unique and covered in prayer. Include a note of encouragement and photo of you, your family, church, or group to further personalize the gift. These personal letters often are children’s favorite shoebox items!
WHERE WILL IT GO?
A donation of $10 per shoebox is critical to help cover collecting, processing, and shipping gifts to equip local churches for evangelism and discipleship. Give online through Follow Your Box and discover the country destination of your gift through our Look-up Tool.
Suggested gift ideas:
More Resources:
“Let’s Be Friends!” Sheet
Give little ones a simple way to include a note in their shoebox gift. This two-page coloring sheet also provides fill-in-the blank options for children to introduce themselves to their shoebox recipients.
Wondering if certain items are OK to pack? See the gift suggestions and search tool