Volunteers across South Carolina are preparing to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, November 17–24. Nearly 5,000 drop-off locations will open nationwide, offering convenient spots for individuals, families, and groups to deliver their packed shoeboxes.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, has collected and delivered gift-filled shoeboxes to children affected by war, poverty, disease, and disaster. This year, the organization hopes to reach another 12 million children worldwide with messages of hope and love.
Shoebox packing is a fun and meaningful activity for participants of all ages. A step-by-step guide is available on the How to Pack a Shoebox webpage. Donors can also give $10 per shoebox online through “Follow Your Box” to receive a tracking label showing where their gift is delivered.
“Samaritan’s Purse works around the world to help people in need, but it’s not about good works—it’s about the Gospel,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “Please prayerfully consider packing a shoebox this year with Operation Christmas Child. These simple gifts open the door for us to share the true meaning of Christmas.”
To find the nearest drop-off location and operating hours, visit https://tinyurl.com/3sufw296. The online lookup tool is searchable by city or ZIP code, and signs will clearly mark each drop-off site.
Since its founding, Operation Christmas Child has delivered more than 232 million shoebox gifts to children in over 170 countries and territories, partnering with local churches to share God’s love and the Good News of Jesus Christ around the world.
