Several women of Allume packed boxes for Operation Christmas Child as their impact opportunity!! I participated in a different group (I wished I could have worked with every group!!) But instead asked to partner with them again this year in spreading the word about OCC!
Starting this month, and each month going forward, I will be featuring a different organization here. I am calling this an impact opportunity, like they did at Allume. This will be a chance for you to hear about different ways you might be able to join and help make an impact in the lives of others.
I shared recently that I really felt God calling me to give more and Allume really gave me the chance to discover several organizations I had not heard of before. Each one touched my heart and I am hoping to partner with each one to raise awareness for their cause!
At Allume, Alex spoke to us on behalf of OCC. Alex was an orphan in Rwanda years ago when he recieved his first Christmas Box. He has a powerful story and I encourage you to click on the link and watch the video.
Each year our family packs boxes for children as well. We do 3 boy boxes and a girl box. It has become a tradition in our family and they get excited about finding the gifts and school supplies for children just like them.
I start shopping in mid August when all of the school supplies come out. This is a PERFECT time to pick up extra items for your shoeboxes because come November the prices go up and the availability goes down. So shop early!!
OCC also recommends that there be something soft in each of the boxes. A stuffed animal or something that the child can grab onto right away and find comfort from.
This year I found these cute stuffed fish for the boy boxes.
We also fill all the empty spaces in with fun, non-meltable candy treats.
One of the cool things you can do is pay for the shipping costs for your boxes (only $7 each!!) and then you will get a tracking code specifically for your box so that you can get an email update telling you where your gifts were sent!
I love that this is a fun, easy and affordable way to make an impact for a child who may not get any other Christmas presents this year.
There are several resources available if you have questions about participating: Click on the links below to read more!
Order free materials to help promote this in your church or community.
More info on following your box!
Locate a drop off location in your area.
Do you and your family pack shoeboxes? What are some of your best gift ideas?? I love to hear about what you are doing to make your boxes extra special!
National Collection Week is November 18-25th. So if you haven’t started already – get packing!!