Last year our Church participated in Operation Christmas Child as part of our VBS Missions. It brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God's love. This program of Samaritan's Purse provides an opportunity for people of all ages to be involved in a simple, hands-on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas - Jesus Christ.
A family in our church has continued to support this organization as part of their missions efforts and is asking for our help throughout the year to donate any of the following items you may own but not need. They will be responsible for boxing, wrapping and sending off the gifts. If you would like to participate, there will be a bin on the mission rack near the restrooms in the northwest corner of Wesley Hall labeled Operations Christmas Child for you to drop off any of the following items.
- Toys - small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch®, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.
- School Supplies - pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
- Hygiene Items - toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap, comb, washcloth, etc.
- Other - hard candy and lollipops, mints, gum, T-shirts, socks, ball caps, sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)
- A Personal Note - The family will include your notes in one of the boxes. In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note and a photo of yourself or your family. (If you include your name and address, the child may write back.)
- Do Not Include - Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans