Packing a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child
Blessing a Child
This week is an exciting time for Operation Christmas Child. The week of November 17-24th has been designated by Samaritan’s Purse, the sponsoring organization for Operation Christmas Child as National Shoebox Collection Week. If you haven’t ever packed a shoebox for a needy child, it’s not too late.
It’s exciting not only to think about what to put in the shoeboxes, but exciting to know a child somewhere in the world will be blessed.
If not sure what to include in your shoebox, check out Samaritan’s Purse website or pinterest boards for creative ideas. Each box should be designated boy or girl, with appropriate items such as hard candy, pencils, pens, markers, hair bows, small puzzles or writing pads to be included. Once the box is packed, close it up and take to a convenient designated place for pick up.
Sometimes local schools or churches pack shoeboxes as a community project. Salem Lutheran Preschool in Salisbury, NC often does this, teaching the children it’s more blessed to give than receive. I’ve seen first-hand how much the children enjoy being a part of the process since my grandson attends preschool at Salem.
What better way to start the holidays than giving to others. Don Davis, a friend of mine volunteers regularly with Operation Christmas Child in Charlotte, NC and was so inspired by this ministry he wrote a fictional book titled, Anna’s Shoebox. This book gives insight into the love given and received on both sides of the process, following Anna’s shoebox from packing to the arms of a grateful child.
Have you ever packed a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child or volunteered in some other way? Maybe you were blessed by a shoebox. If so, leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com./blog
