Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect 11 million gift-filled shoe boxes worldwide in November.
Shoe boxes can be dropped off at about 5,000 locations, which include the Activity Center of the First Baptist Church of Trenton and the Cornerstone Church of Chillicothe, November 12th through 19th.
Operation Christmas Child spokesperson Belinda Hogan says those interested in helping the cause should decide to pack the shoebox for a boy or girl and the age. Samaritan’s Purse has two types of prepared shoeboxes available: corrugated cardboard or plastic. Standard-sized shoe boxes can also be used.
Belinda explains each box should include a “wow” item, such as a doll, soccer ball, jewelry or stuffed animal. The boxes should then be filled with fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies.
Spokesperson David Hogan says Samaritan’s Purse does not allow certain items in the boxes. Banned items include candy, toothpaste, war-related, chocolate or food, liquids, lotions, medications, and vitamins as well as breakable items. Boxes should be accompanied by a $9 donation to cover the shipping and project costs.
More information about Operation Christmas Child can be found at the Samaritan Purse website. Hogan says the website explains how to pack a shoe box. The website also has volunteer opportunities, opportunities to purchase supplies and order boxes, and information on free materials as well as what is and is not allowed.
The Hogans can also be contacted for more information on the project at 660-339-7748.
