People are once again invited to warm the hearts of children in need around the world leading up to Christmas.
Canada’s 2024 Operation Christmas Child campaign is back where people fill shoe boxes with gifts for kids and then drop the donations off from Nov. 18 to 24. People in Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope can bring their filled shoe boxes to Chilliwack Alliance Church during that week.
This is an annual initiative of Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian relief organization that works in more than 100 countries.
Every year, individuals, families, churches, businesses, sports teams, and community groups pack shoe boxes with things like toys, school supplies, and hygiene items, plus personal notes and photos, to be delivered to children living in the midst of poverty, disease, war, and natural disaster.
Last year, Canadians filled more than 425,000 shoe boxes that were delivered to West Africa, Central America, Ukraine and Philippines.
“Struggling children and families need hope,” said Kendra Shields, director of Operation Christmas Child. “This is the essence of Operation Christmas Child. Every shoe box gift is an opportunity for a child to learn that he or she matters to Canadians and, most importantly, matters to God. That’s why I want everyone to help as many children in need as possible by packing shoe boxes.”
Drop-off location and hours in Chilliwack:
Chilliwack Alliance Church (8700 Young Rd.) from Nov. 18 - 24.
- Monday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Tuesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Wednesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Sunday 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
To see a list of suggested items, a list of items not accepted, info on how to pack a box, and more, go to SamaritansPurse.ca/OCC. Canadians can also pack boxes online at PackABox.ca. There is a $12-per-box fee to cover shipping and other program costs.