Since 1993, over 190 million boys and girls in over 170 countries and territories have experienced God’s love through the power of simple shoebox gifts from Operation Christmas Child, a Samaritan’s Purse project.

Samaritan’s Purse works with local churches and ministry partners to deliver the gifts and share the life-changing Good News of Jesus Christ. The goal for 2022 is to collect enough shoebox gifts to reach an additional 11 million children. It is expected that the 200 millionth shoebox will be collected this year.

A shoebox gift can make a lifelong impact on a child’s life through the gift of a small booklet, “The Greatest Gift” written in the child’s own language, telling the story of God’s love and also an opportunity to attend a twelve week Bible study class, “The Greatest Journey.” Many children come to know the transforming love of God through His son, Jesus, and share that joy with their families and friends. One shoebox gift can make a difference in the life of the child, their family and their village. Studies show that, on average, the gift of one box reaches 9-10 people.

Volunteers are preparing to collect shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, November 14 – 21, when more than 4,000 locations nationwide. Locally, Lakeside Baptist Church, 7140 Old Kaufman Road in Canton, is the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Drop-Off location. The hours of operation at Lakeside are listed below: -Nov. 15-19: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. -Nov. 20: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. -Nov. 21: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. -Nov. 22: 8-10 a.m. Signs will identify the curbside drop off as well as carry in location.

There’s still time for individuals, families, and groups to transform empty shoeboxes into fun gifts. Boxes are available at the Lakeside Baptist Church office. Find a step-by-step guide on the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child How to Pack a Shoebox webpage.

Drop the filled box off at Lakeside between November 14 and November 21 and it will be shipped to bless a child who may have never received a gift in his/her lifetime.

For additional information you may contact Donna Rakestraw, Drop Off Team Leader, at 903-848-0675.