Life is about the journey - some roads are not always what they seem but you sure learn a great deal from them!
Event: -
Operation Christmas Child has been running for a number of years by Samaritan Purse. It is a project that our family enjoys participating in as there is great joy in giving.
A Gift A Giving Make a World of Difference (photo compliments of Operation Christmas Child)
There are many kids in Australia and around the world that often go without. While there are projects to help the poor with food, clothing and accommodation, one can not overlook the month of December!
This is the month when many kids are writing lists of what they want for Christmas. They even line up to see Santa, just make sure their message is heard loud and clear. However, not all children are this fortunate, and for some, a little parcel over this time will not only bring a smile to child's face but also equip them with things that they can use through the next year.
So how can you make a difference and be part of an event which helps thousands of children around the world? Operation Christmas Child's challenge is to fill a shoe box with things a child would need. From a toothbrush to a ball, there are many things one can put in a box. However, we know that schools supplies are always in short supply making it a little challenging to fit everything into one box.
#grateful (photo compliments of Operation Christmas Child)
Samaritan Purse has 3 age groups that you can gift to. Of course, there is also a boy and a girl, which really makes it hard and sometimes we may add just one more box to make things even - or so we feel!
Coming up with ideas may also be a little challenging, so Operation Christmas Child have a list of ideas for you. The challenge is that when you have packed some clothes, toiletries and a toy, there is almost no space for anything else! However, our family have become savvy at filling gaps where you may not necessarily see one.
Why encourage the family in this project?
In today's world, we are often caught up in our everyday trials and tribulations. This is no different for children who may spend a great part of their year struggling and working through school. At the end of the year, we all feel we need a little R&R but not all kids are this lucky.
By including the family into a project like this, makes everyone realise how lucky they are to have everything they have. I found that it changed the dynamic of the ultimate 'Santa List', which for many parents might be a huge stress reliever.
It also alters the dynamics of Christmas. My kids would wonder how much of an impact they made by one small token of good gesture. Personally, I believe that one good deed does impact a person's life. Like the car that let you in, when there was the endless traffic line, and as a result allowed you to pick the kids up at school in time. Or, the person that smiled at you when you felt it was the worse day in the world. Just a little token CAN make the world of difference.
Do you ship the box to a child?
The beauty of Operation Christmas Child is that you fill a box and then drop it off at drop off location near you. If you find you are time constraint you can also donate a box. The fun part is filling it. Is there a deadline to filing a box?
Yes. As there is a lot that still needs to be done in regards to shipping and logistics, the deadline (from what I understand) is October.
Photo Compliments of Operation Christmas Child
I personally hope that if you are in the position to contribute to this cause that you will impact one child's life. Please visit Operation Christmas Child's website and Facebook for more information and photos of the difference just one person can make!
One of my favourite charities. It is such fun to see how much you can squeeze into a shoebox. BTW any boxes donated after October are saved for next year or for crisis situations.
I'vew worked at the warehouse and met people who've handed out shoe boxes. Most kids have never before received a gift... Or anything new. Some can't go to school because they have no stationary.
