Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ and make disciples of the nations. The heart of our ministry is Evangelism, Discipleship, and Multiplication.
In partnership with families and churches, Operation Christmas Child collects and distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to millions of children around the world, telling them the Good News of Jesus Christ. Individuals, families, churches, and other groups donate shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items for children ages 2-14. These gifts are collected the third week of November, then processed and shipped internationally. Local ministry partners in 130+ countries host events where boys and girls receive a shoebox gift and hear the Gospel. Children are then invited to learn more about Jesus through The Greatest Journey, a 12-week discipleship course.