Missions Partner Spotlight: Operation Christmas Child

This month, we are focusing our Missions Partner Spotlight on OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD! The Samaritan's Purse project OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD collects shoebox gifts filled with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—and delivers them to children in need around the world to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way. For many of these children, the gift—filled shoebox is the first gift they have ever received.

Since 1993, OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD, the world's largest Christmas project of its kind, has collected and delivered more than 209 million shoebox gifts to children in more than 170 countries and territories. In 2023, OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD hopes to collect enough shoebox gifts to reach another 11 million children. This year, OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD will celebrate its 30th year of ministry!

Learn how to pack a shoebox, view gift suggestions, find the nearest drop-off location, and Follow Your Box at samaritanspurse.org/occ.

Do not include candy; toothpaste; used or damaged items; war related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; seeds; chocolate or food; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items, such as snow globes or glass containers; or aerosol cans.

Participants can donate $10 per shoebox gift online through Follow Your Box and receive a tracking label to discover its destination.

Participants who prefer the convenience of online shopping can also build a box online! Click here to select gifts matched to a child's specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement.