As we inch closer and closer to Christmas–actually, scratch that, I feel like it’s coming up like a bullet train. But anyway, I digress. With Christmas approaching so does the season of giving. One of the ways that our family gives every year is by participating in Operation Christmas Child. We’re one of the many families that packs a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child every year. It’s become a holiday tradition—one that we look forward to each year! Whether you’re new to the concept or have been packing shoeboxes for years, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
what is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child is a program run by Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian humanitarian organization. Founded in 1993, the mission is simple yet incredibly impactful–to deliver gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world. The children receiving these boxes are often in difficult circumstances. Their situations may include living in poverty, war zones, or areas recovering from natural disasters. Each box is packed with love and care by individuals, families, and groups around the world. The purpose of the shoeboxes is not just to provide fun gifts, but also essential supplies–and maybe a little hope.
how to pack a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child
Packing a shoebox can be a fun and meaningful experience for the whole family. And it’s so easy to get even your youngest family members involved! Our family usually picks an age group and then splits up into two groups at the store–one buying for a boy box and one buying for a girl box. We make a fun competition out of it to see who can gather the shoebox items the quickest while staying on budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pack a shoebox that the recipient will love.
Step 1: Choose Your Recipient
Start by deciding who you want to pack a box for. Operation Christmas Child boxes are divided into three age groups:
- 2–4 years old
- 5–9 years old
- 10–14 years old
You’ll also choose between a boy or a girl. Each age range has specific needs, so knowing the recipient’s age and gender will help you select appropriate items. Gift suggestions can be found online.
Step 2: Select a Quality “Wow” Item
A “wow” item is something that will make a big impression. This can be a plush stuffed animal, a soccer ball with a pump, a doll, or even a small toy truck.
- For younger kids: Soft toys, colorful balls, or chunky trucks are ideal.
- For older kids: Think of craft kits, soccer balls, jump ropes, or small games.
Step 3: Add Practical Items
After selecting your “wow” item, add in practical things. These essentials are often in high demand and greatly appreciated:
- Hygiene Items: Consider including soap (in a baggie), a toothbrush (but no toothpaste), a comb, a washcloth, and maybe even a small bar of deodorant for older kids.
- School Supplies: Pencils, crayons, notebooks, erasers, and pencil sharpeners are always needed. Including school supplies can even help children access schooling in some parts of the world.
Tip: If you’re packing for older children, include rulers, colored pencils, or solar calculators. These can be incredibly useful and may not be easy to come by.
Step 4: Add Fun Extras
This is the place to personalize the box a bit. Think of small toys, stickers, games, or puzzles—items that make the box feel special.
- For younger kids: Colorful stickers, bead kits, or small sensory toys.
- For older kids: Mini puzzles, harmonicas, friendship bracelet kits, or a personal note or photograph.
Samaritan’s Purse also encourages you to include a personal note or a photo of your family. I think this is a very meaningful touch when packing your shoebox.
Step 5: Pack with Care and Pray Over the Box
As you finish packing, take a moment to think about the child who will receive it. Some families like to pray over their boxes, but that’s up to you. Then, close your box up and take it to your closest drop-off center.
| Read: Printable Service Advent for Christmas |
what not to pack in a shoebox
While there are many wonderful things you can include, certain items are prohibited for safety, cultural, or logistical reasons. Here’s a quick list of items to avoid:
- Liquids or Gels: Avoid items like lotions, toothpaste, and shampoo. These items could spill and are prohibited. This includes anything that may have liquid in it, like a snow globe.
- Candy or Food: Candy used to be allowed but is no longer accepted due to customs regulations.
- War-Related Items: Toy guns, knives, or soldiers are not allowed. These items could be triggering or inappropriate in many areas.
- Fragile or Glass Items: Anything breakable should be left out to ensure safety.
- Perishables and Expired Items: Ensure that anything you include is new, not perishable, and in excellent condition.
- Money or Valuables: Operation Christmas Child does not encourage including money or valuables in the boxes.
additional tips for packing your shoebox
- Use a Standard-Sized Shoebox or Purchase a Pre-Printed Box: Standard-size boxes work best for consistency and transport. You can also order pre-printed Operation Christmas Child boxes from their website. We always buy inexpensive clear shoeboxes, that way the recipient can reuse them!
- Include a Donation: Each shoebox requires a $10 donation for shipping and ministry materials. This does not go in the box, you pay online. With this payment you can also track where your box goes!
- Pack for More Than One Child: If you’re able, consider packing multiple boxes for different age ranges and genders. It can be a fun way to include different family members in the experience, and it multiplies your impact!
why our family participates in Operation Christmas Child every year
I’m sure you’re like me and feel like your kids have so much. Even in the years where budgets are a little tighter, compared to others we are still extremely bless. I love this opportunity to encourage our children to be generous. And generous for someone they’ve never even met! Our kids know that the money spent on this comes out of our Christmas budget, and yet they still want to pack a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child every year. It’s a great way to teach our kids about gratitude, empathy, and kindness during the holiday season. I love watching my own children get excited about finding toys and supplies they think will be meaningful to another child, and it’s become a fun tradition each Christmas.
Keep in mind that collection week for Operation Christmas Child takes place the third week of November, so don’t wait to fill your shoebox! You can also fill a shoebox online at samaritanspurse.org.
Follow along on Instagram for more seasonal gifting and fun!
