operation Christmas child

Be a part of changing children’s lives all over the world through a simple gift with Operation Christmas Child. A shoebox is the first gift many children have ever received and the treasures inside allow them to experience God’s love in a tangible way. And it is estimated that the Gospel is shared ten times as a direct result of each box that you send.

4 WAYS TO BE INVOLVED:

1.) Pick up empty OCC shoeboxes in The Cross Church Mall before and after each weekend service beginning October 13, or pack your own wrapped shoebox. It is wonderful to include personal notes, a family picture, and quality homemade items. Children only receive one OCC shoebox in a lifetime so make it special! Filled boxes should be returned to the OCC table at The Cross Church any weekend prior to November 12, or during National Collection Week, November 13 – 20.

2.) Pack an online shoebox. (Click HERE or see below.)

3.) Pray for the child who will receive your gift. Pray for the network of volunteers and pastors as they train, spiritually prepare, plan, and distribute millions of boxes.

4.) Serve during National Collection Week, November 13 – 20, at The Cross Church. (Click HERE to sign up for volunteer times.)

Packing a Shoebox is Easy!

STEP 1: Pick up a  “How to Pack a Shoebox” brochure in The Cross Church Mall or see instructions HERE. Chose whether your shoebox will be for a boy or a girl and choose an age category. Use the label from the brochure and mark your selection, or download a label HERE.

STEP 2: Pack a standard-size shoebox. Plastic shoeboxes work well because they can be reused for gathering water or supplies. Wrapping the shoebox is optional— if you do, please wrap the lid separately and rubber band securely.

STEP 3: Fill the box with a variety of age-appropriate gifts (see below). Gifts must be new. Feel free to send a note or prayer to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with a child. Do not include: used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.

STEP 4: Use the brochure envelope and include a $10 or more donation to Samaritan’s Purse for each shoebox you pack to help cover shipping and other project costs. Donations may be combined for more than one box.

STEP 5: Place rubber band around your shoebox and drop it off at a designated table in The Cross Church Mall.

STEP 6: Follow your shoebox! If you make your donation online, you can use your email receipt to track your shoebox. (Click HERE for more information.)