“Operation Christmas Child” is a Christian outreach project to children around the world. Sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse, since 1993 more than 135 million shoeboxes have been collected and delivered to young underprivileged children in over 150 countries! In 2016, another 12 million children received shoe box gifts! There are over 500,000 volunteers worldwide, with more than 170,000 from the United States, involved in collecting, shipping and distributing the shoeboxes.

Churches and individuals in our local area fill shoeboxes with small gifts, for boys and girls ages two to four, five to nine, and ten to fourteen. These gifts may include toys, stuffed animals, school supplies such as paper, pencils, sharpeners and crayons, and hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, washcloth, etc. Perhaps an article to “wow” a child such as a pretty doll or soccer ball and pump could be included.

Connie Gallo, is the local OCC relay coordinator, and Catherine Krom, is a volunteer who has knit hundreds of winter hats for children. Both ladies are members of the Boonville United Methodist church and work along with many other volunteers.

You may go to the website Samaritanspurse.org/occ to get more information. Personal notes of encouragement and photos may also be enclosed. Please include a donation of $7.00 in your box to pay for transportation. These shoeboxes do change the lives of the children and their families.

Boonville United Methodist Church on Main Street is a drop-off location in our area. Boxes will be received there from November 14 to 21. Volunteers are welcome to assist during those days at the church. The boxes will be picked up November 22 and begin their long journey around the world, bringing joy to children who otherwise would receive nothing.

Submitted Nov.1, for immediate publication

Justine Poniktera 831-9773