Every year Samaritan's Purse collects shoe box gifts filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items for children around the world. The project delivers not only the joy of what, for many kids, is their first gift ever, but it also gives them a tangible expression of God's love. Franklin Graham, the President of Samaritan's Purse puts it this way: "Every box is an opportunity to reach a child with the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
Last time we tracked our boxes to PARAGUAY! (See the map at the bottom of this page.)
Encourage your children to go shopping with you and let them pick out an item or two from the list. The Dollar Tree has a lot of the items mentioned. We feel it is important for the children to take ownership and participate in this service project to learn how to give from their heart, knowing they will be helping others less fortunate and showing them love.
Here's how you can help:
- Purchase items that can be packed into boxes that will be put together during the Sunday School class on November 17th. Items will be needed from the following categories: A "WOW" item, Personal Care, School Supplies, Crafts and Activities, Toys, The full list of items can be found here: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/what-goes-in-my-shoebox-suggestions/
Purchased items can be placed at the table in the Welcome Area October 6 - November 17 (packing day)
- Help on Nov 17th during the Sunday School hour to pack & sort the boxes and get tracking info recorded.
- Pray. For those to step out and show Love to those reached by these boxes; for the missionaries who work with the kids to deliver both the Gospel and a box, and the kids and their families who are in need and that they may hear the Good News.
- Things Not to include: Candy; toothpaste; gum; used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; seeds; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.
