operation Christmas Child

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind, has collected and delivered more than 135 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 150 countries and territories. The Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child collects shoeboxes--filled with school supplies, hygiene items, fun toys and notes of encouragement--and delivers them to children in need around the world to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way.

How to Pack a Shoebox

What to Include: 

• “Wow” Item - Delight a kid! Start with a medium to large item that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Ideas include: Soccer ball with pump, Stuffed animal, Toys (puppets, trucks, etc.), Doll (baby, Barbie, etc.), Musical instrument, Outfit, Shoes
• Other Items:
  • Toys: Include items that children will immediately embrace such as toy cars, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), etc.
    
  • School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
    
  • Non-liquid Hygiene Items: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.
    
  • Accessories: T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc.
    
  • A Personal Note: You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself, your family, or group. If you include your name and an address, the child may be able to write back.

Do Not Include:

• Used or damaged items
  
• War-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures
  
• Chocolate or food
  
• Liquids or lotions
  
• Medications or vitamins
  
• Breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers
  
• Aerosol cans
  
• Candy specifications: During 2016, the following types of candy can be included in shoebox gifts: hard candy, gummy bears, caramels, taffy, and gum—as long as its expiration date is at least six months after National Collection Week: Nov. 14-21, 2016. Starting in 2017, no type of candy can be included in shoebox gifts.
  
• Toothpaste specifications: Toothpaste can be included this year as long as its expiration date is at least six months after National Collection Week: Nov. 14-21, 2016. Starting in 2017, toothpaste cannot be included in shoebox gifts, but a child’s oral hygiene can still be improved by regular use of a toothbrush alone.

Drop Off Location & Times

First Baptist Church Sweetwater
213 E 3rd Street
Sweetwater, TX 79556

Monday, Nov. 14, 2016: 10am - 12pm
Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016: 4pm - 6pm
Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016: 3:30pm - 6pm
Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016: 1pm - 3pm
Friday, Nov. 18, 2016: 4pm - 6pm
Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016: 9am - 11am
Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016: 12pm - 2pm
Monday, Nov. 21, 2016: 10am - 12 pm

Check Out Samaritan's Purse Here for More Ideas!