The holidays are around the corner and Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, is seeking shoeboxes filled with toys, hygiene items and school supplies. Bobbie Cade is coordinating the drop off location at PassageWay Church, 715 Grant St.
At samaritanspurse.com, people can find a list of items requested, those that are on a do not pack list, and can even have the organization select the items for you for $25.
Collection week is Monday through Nov. 23 with drop off times at 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday and noon to 2 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
"The kids that get these gifts, they only receive one box in their lifetime," Cade said. "That's how significant this is. Everyone I've met or heard speak never forget what was in that box. It's just incredible."
Cade has been packing shoeboxes for the organization for 20 years, with her children and grandchildren.
"I buy all year because I love everything about this organization," she said. "Last year, I personally packed 47 boxes. That's not typical until you know more about the organization and then don't think you can do enough to help them."
It costs $9 for shipping. Cade said if people don't want to shop they can give a monetary donation that would cover shipping for other boxes.
"This year, they have an online build-a-box for $25 flat fee that includes shipping," she said. "They are reserving those boxes for the hard to reach areas and they won't be known to the person until they are delivered."
People who do the build-a-box have an option to track where the box goes.
The shoebox gifts must be new items. Cade said the items go to a distribution center first where they make sure all the items follow the requirements. When the boxes go through customs, if it's used items, it's not a gift and it's considered aid.
"New items are not considered relief aid which is what we don't want it to be," Cade said. "I suggest people take items out of packaging which takes up room and becomes litter in their country. It allows for more room for items you want to pack and send."
Cade said this year's drop off is going to be outside and a touchless pickup to make people feel more comfortable. She's hoping to get the community involved to make it into a year-round project.
If you have questions or need shoeboxes, call 402-533-9927.
