A shoebox filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items can travel thousands of miles to brighten a child's holiday. Nevada residents will soon have an opportunity to take part in an annual gift drive that reaches children around the world.
Operation Christmas Child's National Collection Week runs Nov. 16-23, when volunteers will collect gift-filled shoeboxes at drop-off locations across Nevada and throughout the country.
The project, organized by Samaritan's Purse, has collected and delivered shoebox gifts since 1993. The gifts are intended for children in need, including those affected by war, poverty, disease, and disasters. The organization hopes to reach 12.8 million children in 2026.
People can pack shoeboxes individually, with family members or as part of a group. Suggested items include fun toys, school supplies, and personal care products.
Those interested in participating can find nearby drop-off locations and hours through the Operation Christmas Child website. The online lookup tool allows people to search by city or ZIP code, and signs at each location will identify the drop-off site.
Participants can also contribute $10 per shoebox gift through the project's “Follow Your Box” option to receive a tracking label and learn where their gift is sent.
Since its launch in 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 244 million shoebox gifts to children in more than 175 countries and territories.
For details on how to pack a shoebox, find a drop-off location, or learn more about the project's mission, visit the Operation Christmas Child website .
