the WHAT, WHERE, WHEN of Operation Christmas Child

Whether you are new to OCC and packing shoeboxes or a veteran, I wanted to post some of the basics for everyone.  

What? Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan's Purse. The idea is simple: fill a (wrapped if possible)shoebox with a mix of practical items like toothbrush and toothpaste, soap and washcloth, school supplies, and maybe clothing items like a tshirt or hat or gloves.... fun items like a stuffed animal or doll for the child to love, toys, a bag of hard candy... a letter and/or photo... and prayer.

(Do not include any liquids or lotions, toys related to war, or anything dangerous in the box. Please bag soap and candies and anything else that either could melt or scent up the box.)

The box will go to a child in need in one of over 130 countries. To a child in poverty, in war-torn areas, in orphanages, in areas ravaged by disease or famine or drought. It will go forth with a booklet sharing the gospel. (In some areas it is simply offered, such as in Muslim nations.) Boxes are packed in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, Spain, Finland.... and in other nations to go to children around the world who are in desperate need of a bit of joy and God's love. Some nations have different requirements about what can go in the box because of customs. Check your nation's site to get the details.  

When? (Here in the US) Collection Week is November 12-19, 2012. If your church or group is participating, they may ask for you to turn in your shoebox before these dates, but this is the time when they are collected across the United States.  

Where? If your church or group participates, you know the where... but if you are doing this on your own, you can easily find a drop off location by you and the hours of operation at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Drop_Off_Locations/

WHY??? Because this simple gift makes SUCH a HUGE difference! Check out the Impact tab to read stories of the shoeboxes or to watch videos. Such a little thing... with such an eternal impact!! Share the love of Christ today!