By Nathaniel Smith, Editor
The county-wide Operation Christmas Child shoebox collection has officially been sent off to deliver Christmas joy around the world! First Baptist Church of Salem led the charge by being our area’s designated drop-off location.
A total of 2,033 shoeboxes were donated from 24 churches, 5 organizations and 17 individuals throughout our community. With the help of Hank Weeden and Salem Lions Football players, the total collection was packed and loaded into a truck donated by Sternberg Truck & Van Rental.
Operation Christmas Child is a wonderful ministry led by Franklin Graham and the Samaritan’s Purse organization. Each year, millions of Christmas shoeboxes are sent all over the world with the goal of giving children in far away places a wonderful Christmas experience, and to teach them about Jesus Christ. Many of these children have never heard of Jesus or Christmas before. Last year, more than 11.3 million shoeboxes full of toys and exciting treats were sent across the world in the hope of bringing children love and joy, and the goal for 2024 is even more ambitious. Samaritan's Purse hopes to have enough shoeboxes this year to reach 12 million children.
The overwhelming support that was poured into this ministry shows the level of grace and generosity that can be found in Washington County. 2,033 more children will get to experience the joy of Christmas this year thanks to the love shown throughout our community.
“Thank you, Washington County, for going above and beyond the goal that was set before us. Thank you, everyone, for sharing your time, talents, gifts and prayers in packing each and every box," said Kate Henderson of First Baptist Church. "May God bless each Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan's Purse.”
OCC drop-off coordinators Cathy Kalb, Jonathan Smith, and Dawn Smith.
Cora Cole dropping off shoeboxes from Salem Community Church.
Truck provided by Sternberg Truck & Van Rental.
Photos by Nathaniel Smith.