For millions of children around the globe who are experiencing poverty, war or disaster, Operation Christmas Child is a wonderful way to bring them joy, hope and the Good News of Jesus Christ. Operation Christmas Child, which is part of the Samaritan’s Purse Charity, collects shoes boxes from individuals who have filled them with gifts, schools supplies, hygiene items and other miscellaneous items along with a small donation to cover the cost of transportation.

The boxes are collected and taken to a local drop off center. From there, they are shipped to a distribution center where they are crated and transported to hundreds of different countries throughout the world. This year, valley residents interested in participating in Operation Christmas Child can take their filled shoe boxes directly to the drop-off center at the Family Life Center in Wofford Heights. Drop-off dates are Nov. 16-23. For more information, please call (760)376-6676.