Volunteers in North Arkansas are preparing for Operation Christmas Child’s National Collection Week, set to run from November 16 through November 23. The annual project, organized by Samaritan’s Purse, gathers and delivers shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items to children in need across the globe.
Local drop-off points include First Baptist Church in Batesville, First Baptist Church in Mountain View, Westside Baptist Church in Greers Ferry, and Jacksonport Baptist Church in Jacksonport. During collection week, area residents can bring packed shoeboxes to these locations, from where they will join others for international distribution.
Since its start in 1993, the project has delivered over 244 million shoeboxes to children in more than 175 countries and territories. This year, organizers aim to reach 12.8 million children, many of whom are facing hardships such as war, poverty, disease, or natural disasters.
“Shoe box gifts may seem simple, but they have an eternal impact,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “Each box is an opportunity to tell a boy or girl in need about the true meaning of Christmas.”
Residents interested in participating can pack their own shoeboxes with thoughtful gifts and follow Samaritan’s Purse’s step-by-step guidance, available at samaritanspurse.org. A $10 donation per box is encouraged to support project costs, including shipping. Through the organization’s Follow Your Box program, donors can also track their gifts to see where they are delivered.
For more detailed instructions, drop-off hours, and a full list of collection sites, visit samaritanspurse.org.