Operation Christmas Child

In addition to getting to New Orleans, the LYONs are also interested in helping those less fortunate than us.  That’s why we’re once again collecting for Operation Christmas Child.

This year, we’re doing things a little different.  In the past, when we’ve collected assorted items, we’ve ended up with too much of one thing and not enough of the other.

So this year we’re asking you to pre-pack the shoeboxes.  Boxes are must be turned in by Sunday, November 2.  Once we’ve collected all the boxes, the LYONs will wrap them, label them, and deliver them to the drop-off site. 

HOW TO PACK A SHOE BOX

1. SHOE BOX - Use an empty shoe box (standard size, please) or a small plastic container.

2. BOY OR GIRL? - Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child’s age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14.

3. FILL WITH GIFTS - Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will bring delight to a child. 

4. INCLUDE YOUR DONATION - Please donate $7 for each shoebox you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs.   Checks can be made out to: Samaritan’s Purse (note “OCC” on memo line).

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GIFT IDEAS

TOYS: small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.

HYGIENE ITEMS: toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.

OTHER: Hard candy (please double bag all candy), mints, gum, T-shirts, socks, ball caps; sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)

A PERSONAL NOTE: In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child 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NOT INCLUDE: Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow-globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.