Christmas is coming and in preparation, Samaritan's Purse is once again looking for shoeboxes filled with gifts as part of the annual Operation Christmas Child.
The international Christian relief organization runs the annual initiative and delivers the boxes of supplies and goodies to children in need in more than 100 countries. This year, that will include children in Ukraine, who will receive shoeboxes from Canada.
Collection season is now on and individuals, businesses, and other groups are encouraged to fill a box with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and personal notes and photos. You can use a shoe box you have at home or buy a clear plastic box to fill up.
“It seems the world’s greatest need over the past few years has been hope,” said Kendra Shields, acting director of Operation Christmas Child. “This is the essence of Operation Christmas Child. Every shoebox gift is an opportunity for a child to learn that he or she matters to Canadians and most importantly, matters to God. That’s why I urge everyone to help as many children in need as possible by packing shoeboxes.”
Last year, Canadians packed more than 413,000 shoeboxes that were distributed in West Africa and Central America, with more than 3,400 from the Newmarket area.
In total since 1993, the organization has delivered nearly 200 million shoeboxes to children in 100 countries around the world.
For those wishing to participate in Operation Christmas Child this year, you can pack your box and drop it off during national collection week Nov. 14 to 20. Locally, they can be dropped off at Valley View Alliance Church at 800 Davis Dr. in Newmarket. You also need to make a $10 donation per box to cover the costs of delivering the boxes.
The church is open for drop-offs at the following days and times:
- Monday, Nov. 14: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 18: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 19: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
You can also participate online by donating money to have a box packed on your behalf. You can choose to receive updates on where the box you sponsor will be heading.
You can also further your fundraising by creating a specific online donation page to raise money toward your shoebox goal.
