Members of several local congregations are gathering this week to prepare shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child, a Samaritan’s Purse Gospel outreach that delivers gifts to children in need around the globe. Volunteers are sorting items, ensuring each box contains age‑appropriate toys, school supplies, and personal care products for boys and girls ages 2 through 14.
How the effort works
Each participating church collects donations of new, unwrapped items from its members. Volunteers then pack the items into sturdy shoe boxes, label them, and wrap them in festive paper. The boxes are shipped to a central processing center, where they are consolidated and sent to more than 100 destination countries.
Why it matters to families
Beyond providing material blessings, the program presents the Christian Gospel in a child‑friendly way. Organizers say the act of giving reinforces family values of generosity, compassion, and faith, while also sharing the message of Christ with children who might never otherwise hear it.
Community response
Local pastors and parents have praised the initiative, noting that it offers a tangible way for families to involve their children in service. “When our kids see the smiles on the faces of children far away, they learn the true meaning of Christmas,” one volunteer said.
The effort continues through the holiday season, with churches encouraging anyone who can spare a few new items to contribute. Boxes can be dropped off at designated collection points listed on each church’s website or social‑media page.
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, please contact your local church’s outreach coordinator.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
