Operation Christmas Child: Sharing the Good News One Shoebox at a Time

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CELINA, OH — What started as a small act of kindness in the United Kingdom in 1990 has grown into one of the largest Christmas outreach efforts in the world. Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, partners with local churches and volunteers to deliver gift-filled shoeboxes to children affected by war, poverty, disease, and disaster in more than 170 countries.

Each shoebox is packed with small toys, school supplies, and personal care items — but the heart of the mission goes beyond the gifts. It’s a way to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and show love to children who may never have received a present before.

Since joining forces with Samaritan’s Purse in 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered over 232 million shoeboxes worldwide. In 2025, the organization hopes to collect 11.1 million shoeboxes in the U.S., and 12.6 million globally.

Participants can pack their own shoebox — filled with a “wow” item like a soccer ball or doll, plus other fun toys and essentials — and drop it off during National Collection Week, November 17–24. A $10 suggested donation helps cover shipping and ministry materials, including a storybook called The Greatest Gift, which introduces children to the story of Jesus in over 100 languages.

For those unable to pack a box in person, Operation Christmas Child also offers an easy way to pack a shoebox online at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline. With just a few clicks, supporters can choose gifts, add a personal note, and share in bringing joy and hope to a child around the world.