There’s something truly special about giving a gift—especially one that can brighten a child’s world and remind them they’re loved. Every year, communities around the world come together through Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, to do just that: share joy, hope, and the love of Jesus—one shoebox at a time.
What Is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is a simple but powerful idea. You pack a shoebox with small gifts—things like toys, school supplies, and hygiene items—and Samaritan’s Purse delivers it to a child in need somewhere around the world. That’s it! One small box, filled with love, becomes a big reminder that someone cares.
But OCC is about more than just the gifts. Each box opens the door for children and families to hear about God’s love through local church partners. Many kids even have the opportunity to participate in a follow-up discipleship program called The Greatest Journey, where they learn more about Jesus and what it means to walk with Him.
A Mission That Spreads Joy Worldwide
Since Operation Christmas Child began in 1993, more than 232 million shoebox gifts have been delivered to children in over 170 countries and territories. That’s millions of smiles and millions of hearts touched—all because ordinary people decided to pack a box.
What started as a simple idea has become a global movement of generosity. Last year alone, over 11 million shoeboxes were collected worldwide! Every box is a little ambassador of hope, crossing borders, cultures, and languages to reach children who might otherwise never receive a gift.
How It Works
It’s easier than you might think to get involved:
- Find a shoebox — You can use one you already have or order a special Operation Christmas Child box online.
- Choose a boy or girl and an age group (2–4, 5–9, or 10–14).
- Fill it with fun and practical gifts — A “wow” toy (like a doll or soccer ball), school supplies, a toothbrush, soap, a T-shirt, or other treasures.
- Add a personal touch — A note, photo, or prayer can mean the world to the child who receives your box.
- Pray over your box — Ask God to bless the child who will open it.
- Drop it off during National Collection Week (November 17–24 this year!) — and if you’re local, TrueNorth Financial will be serving as a drop-off location this year!
You can also track your shoebox with a “Follow Your Box” label and later find out which country it traveled to—an exciting surprise for families and kids alike!
Why It Matters
It’s easy to underestimate how much impact one small box can have. For many children, this is the first gift they’ve ever received. It brings joy, dignity, and hope—and often opens the door to hearing the Gospel message for the first time.
Local pastors and ministry partners distribute the boxes and continue building relationships long after the gifts are opened. It’s an incredible way for the global Church to work together, sharing God’s love in both word and deed.
Why We’re Involved
Here at TrueNorth Financial, we believe in making a difference—not just through our work, but through how we serve and care for others. Operation Christmas Child is a cause close to our hearts.
We’ve seen firsthand how something as simple as a shoebox can make a world of difference. That’s why we’re excited to take part again this year and to open our doors as a local collection site for your shoeboxes.
When you drop off your gift here, you’re not just handing over a box—you’re sending joy, hope, and love across the globe.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving
Operation Christmas Child reminds us that generosity doesn’t have to be grand—it just has to be genuine. A few small gifts, packed with love, can change a life.
As Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, often says, “Each box is an opportunity to show God’s love in a tangible way.”
This year, let’s come together as a community to make a difference. Grab a shoebox, fill it with joy, and drop it off at TrueNorth Financial during National Collection Week. Together, we can send hope to children around the world and be part of something truly life-changing.