Operation Christmas Child

Continuing TLC’s long history of packing shoebox gifts for Operation Christmas Child, we invite all in the congregation (and any others!) to join in YEAR-ROUND activities:

PRAY – Prayer is the most important thing that goes in each box!  Pray for God to prepare the hearts of the children in need around the world who will receive shoebox gifts and to guide the leaders of the local churches who distribute the gifts; for the children discipled through ‘The Greatest Journey’ follow-up program to become life-long followers of Christ; and for the thousands of OCC volunteers worldwide.

SHOP – By purchasing items at clearance sales, especially right after holidays, we can be better stewards of our OCC financial resources. Donated items are always welcomed (new only, please), but we do have a budget for purchasing, so anyone who is willing to watch for sales and do the shopping can be reimbursed.  Please check with the church office in advance to ensure we are not over-buying certain items at the expense of others (Click here for list of suggested gift items)

DONATE – Contributions can be made at any time of the year and earmarked for OCC; these funds will be used for purchasing items and for the suggested $10 per box needed to cover costs of shipping, printing discipleship materials in native languages, and training local church leaders.

WRITE A NOTE – Personal notes and photos from families or individuals are treasured items for the children who receive the gifts.  We can place them in the shoeboxes that we prepare.

HELP WITH ADMIN / PACKING PARTY PREP – Volunteers are needed to help organize and inventory our items as we near the “Packing Parties” in July and November.  Many hands make light work!

BUILD-A-SHOEBOX-ONLINE – Just $25 covers all the contents of a shoebox and the shipping cost; you get to pick from a list of items and write a note if you wish. Samaritan’s Purse staff will take care of the packing!  (A link will be posted in October.)

In November / December:

VOLUNTEER DURING NATIONAL COLLECTION WEEK – TLC serves as a Drop-off Location where churches, organizations and individuals can bring their completed shoebox gifts during National Collection Week (for 2023, this is Nov. 13-20).  If you, your small group, or your family would like to be a blessing to the donors and be blessed by the experience, please consider volunteering for a shift. Training will be provided.  Contact Stacey Stillwell for exact times and to sign up.

VOLUNTEER AT THE DENVER PROCESSING CENTER – Before the millions of shoebox gifts collected each year can bring hope and joy to children around the world, each one is carefully inspected and made ready for international shipping.  Denver is one of just eight processing centers across the United States, so we have a wonderful opportunity to be part of this essential step in the journey of each shoebox. Check back in October with Stacey Stillwell for exact dates and times.