Operation Christmas Child

Christmas is a season of joy, community, and sharing God’s love. This year, our church is partnering with Operation Christmas Child—a project by Samaritan's Purse—to send gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world. For many of these children, this shoebox will be the very first gift they have ever received.  
How to Pack Your Shoebox (Step-by-Step)

1. Pick Up Your Box & Label: Visit Cedar Grove Church between November 1 and November 15 to collect your shoeboxes. Choose whether your gift is for a Boy or a Girl, and select the age category (2–4, 5–9, or 10–14 years old).  
2. Start with a "Wow" Item: Choose a special main gift that will delight the child, such as a doll, a soccer ball with a pump, a stuffed animal, shoes, or a small backpack.   
3. Fill It Up: Pack the rest of the box with school supplies (notebooks, pencils, crayons, calculators), personal care items (toothbrushes, washcloths, combs), and fun toys or accessories.   
4. Make It Personal & Pray: Pray for the child who will receive your box, and include a personal note along with a photo of yourself or your family to encourage them.   
5. Include the $12 Donation: A $12 donation per shoebox is requested to cover project costs, including shipping and Gospel materials. Tip: If you donate online at SamaritansPurse.ca/OCCdonate, you can print a tracking label to follow your box to its destination country!   
6. Drop It Off: Bring your filled shoebox back to Cedar Grove Church by November 15.   

What NOT to Include
To adhere to custom regulations and safety guidelines, please do not include:  

• Food, candy, or gum   
• Toothpaste or soap   
• Liquids, lotions, or breakable items   
• Used/damaged items or war-related toys   
• Medications, vitamins, or seeds   

Key Campaign Details

• Pick-up & Collection Period: November 1–15   
• Location: Cedar Grove Church   
• More Resources: Visit SamaritansPurse.ca/OCC   

Let’s unite as a community to bring joy and hope to children across the globe this Christmas!