Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan's Purse that aims to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. Through this project, Samaritan's Purse partners with the local church worldwide to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and make disciples of the nations. Since 1993, more than 198 million children in more than 170 countries and territories have received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox. The project delivers not only the joy of what, for many kids, is their first gift ever, but also gives them a tangible expression of God’s love.
Today, thousands of churches and individuals fill shoeboxes with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and more to be delivered to children all over the world for Christmas. It is a simple way to help those in need around the world and also to spread the joy and message of Christ during the Christmas season. Since 1990, shoebox gifts have been delivered to more than 157 million children, in over 130 countries.
This initiative doesn't end with the shoeboxes. After the boxes have been delivered, the OCC staff begins a 12-session bible study called, The Greatest Journey, to teach children and families all about who God is and what he has done for them. Through this teaching, millions of children are coming to know Christ as their Lord and Saviour, and it all begins with a simple shoebox.
Where to Get a Shoebox
Empty shoeboxes are available for pickup from the church office (1988 56th Street) during office hours (M-Th, 9AM-4PM; closed Wednesdays from 10:30AM-12PM). You can also use any average size shoebox to pack gifts.
How to Pack a Shoebox
- Pick up a shoebox from the church office (or use your own average shoebox).
- Decide whether you will pack a box for a girl or a boy, and the age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Download a label for your box.
- Fill it with gifts. Select a quality “wow” toy such as a doll, soccer ball with pump, or stuffed animal. Then add other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. Here are some suggestions on what to pack.
- Pray. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift. You can also include a personal note and photo.
- Make a minimum $12 donation per box to Samaritan's Purse for each shoebox you prepare, to help cover project costs--including shipping.
- Drop off your filled shoebox to the church during National Collection Week.
National Collection Week
The church will be accepting filled shoeboxes during the week of November 17th - 22nd during the times below.
Monday, November 17th: 12PM-2PM; 5-7PM
Tuesday, November 18th: 12PM-2PM; 5-7PM
Wednesday, November 19th: 12PM-2PM; 5-7PM
Thursday, November 20th: 12PM-2PM; 5-7PM
Friday, November 21st: 12PM-2PM
Saturday, November 22nd: 10AM-12PM
Boxes can also be dropped off during Collection Week to the church office. Office hours are Monday - Thursday, 9AM-4PM; closed Wednesday from 10:30AM-12PM.
Please note: we are not able to accept shoeboxes past Saturday, November 22nd.
Serve with OCC
We are in need of volunteers to serve with this ministry. Volunteer positions include greeters during Collection Week, prayer warriors, and drivers who will deliver collected boxes to Richmond. If you are able to help serve with this ministry, or have any questions about Operation Christmas Child, click the button below to email Denise Johnston, the Local Logistics Coordinator for South Delta.
For more information about Operation Christmas Child, click the button below.