International relief organization Samaritan’s Purse has partnered with churches worldwide to gather children's toys, school supplies, and personal care items. Several churches in Davis and Weber County are hosting drop-off locations through Monday, Nov. 25 for residents who want to donate a shoebox filled with requested items for Operation Christmas Child. 

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. Davis and Weber County churches are part of nearly 5,000 organizations participating across the United States.

“Samaritan’s Purse is committed to taking the gospel to hard-to-reach places, whether it’s responding to a disaster or sharing God’s love through the power of a simple shoebox,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. 

Individuals, families and groups are encouraged to decorate and pack an average-sized shoebox filled with books, toys or other items a child would like for Christmas. Add a label to the box to determine whether the recipient is a boy or girl and which age category: 2–4, 5–9, or 10–‍14. 

Ideas for gifts and printable labels can be found at SamaritansPurse.org along with a step-by-step guide on How to Pack a Shoebox and more information about the organization. Monetary donations are also accepted. 

This year, Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect enough shoeboxes to reach 12 million children. The following local churches are drop-off locations for the shoebox program: The Bridge Community (1284 W. 75 North, Centerville), Lakeside Community Church (1094 W. 1800 North, Clinton), North Valley Bible Church (222 N. Highway 89, Ogden)  and Community United Methodist Church (163 W. 4800 South, Ogden).

“You can show kids in need the true meaning of Christmas this year through a shoebox gift,” Graham said. “Please, prayerfully consider packing a shoebox this year.” λ