Operation Christmas Child

October - November

Share God’s Love Through a Simple Shoebox!

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, offers a hands-on way to share God’s love with children in need across the world. By packing shoeboxes filled with toys, hygiene items, and school supplies, you can give a tangible expression of His love. These boxes are distributed by local partners worldwide, who use them to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Since 1993, more than 220 million children in 170 countries have received shoeboxes, and millions have participated in The Greatest Journey discipleship program. Each shoebox not only brings joy to a child but also shares the life-changing message of Jesus’ love.

Will you join us this year? Pack a shoebox, pray for the child who will receive it, and help spread the hope of Jesus to children around the globe.

Remember, your shoebox gift will be an expression of God’s love to a child who may have never received a gift before. To make a lasting impact, pack quality items. Choose fun, durable toys that will delight, fill the box completely, and make it personal—pray over it, and include a note of encouragement to make it special and unique.

Short on time?

If you’re short on time, you can pack a shoebox online. Simply use the link below to visit the Operation Christmas Child website, choose your items from a pre-set list, and Samaritan’s Purse will pack and send the shoebox for you. Each box will contain quality toys, school supplies and personal care items. This gift will provide an opportunity to present the Gospel to boys and girls in a child-friendly way.

Start your shoebox

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan’s Purse that delivers shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and other gifts to children in need around the world. These shoeboxes are distributed by local ministry partners as a means of sharing God’s love and the message of Jesus Christ.
How do I pack a shoebox?
It’s easy! Choose whether you’re packing for a boy or girl and select an age group (2–4, 5–9, or 10–14). Fill the shoebox with a variety of gifts, including toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and a special “wow” item like a stuffed animal or soccer ball. Don’t forget to pray over your box and include a note of encouragement for the child!
What items should I include in my shoebox?
We recommend including fun toys (like dolls, balls, or puzzles), hygiene items (toothbrushes, combs), school supplies (notebooks, pencils), and other small gifts like clothing or accessories. Avoid including any liquids, food, war-related toys, or anything breakable. Find a complete list of suggestions here.
Can I track where my shoebox goes?
Yes! If you donate online to cover the shipping cost of your shoebox, you can use the “Follow Your Box” feature. You’ll receive a tracking number and can later find out the destination of your shoebox gift.
How much does it cost to send a shoebox?
A suggested donation of $12.50 per shoebox helps cover the shipping and other ministry costs to deliver your gift to a child in need. You can make this donation online for easy processing.
Where do the shoeboxes go?
Shoeboxes are sent to over 100 countries and territories where local ministry partners distribute them to children in need. The boxes are often delivered to remote or hard-to-reach areas, providing a unique opportunity to share the Gospel with communities that might not have access to resources or outreach programs.
When is the deadline to drop off my shoebox?
Trinity’s deadline is November 10.
Where can I drop off my shoebox?
You can bring your shoebox gift with you to church any Sunday between October 6 and November 10. You can also drop it off at our office any time throughout the week. Our offices are open from 8:30-5pm Monday through Thursday, and 8-noon on Fridays.
Are there things I should not include in my shoebox?
Yes. Please do not include: candy; toothpaste; gum; used or damaged items; scary or war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; seeds; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans. Operation Christmas Child has created a quick and easy way to make sure: Can I Pack?.
Is Operation Christmas Child just for kids?
Not at all! Anyone can participate in packing a shoebox! Whether you’re a family, a church group, or an individual, everyone is welcome to join in and share the love of Christ with children around the world.