Operation Christmas Child

Samaritan’s Purse is an international relief ministry led by Franklin Graham.  It provides support for veterans, healthcare, career development, and food for families around the world.  They also provide disaster relief and came to our area after the tornado in March.

Another aspect of their ministry is Operation Christmas Child.  This effort collects shoebox gifts for children around the world as an expression of God’s love.  The gift is not the items in the box, but instead the Gospel that is told to each child that receives a box.  Last year, Hermitage Hills packed 465 boxes.  This is 465 opportunities for the Gospel to bring lifechange to a child!

Here is how to get involved.

• You can pack a box on your own (shoeboxes provided by the church).  To fill a box - there is a list provided as a guideline for what to put inside the boxes at samaritanspurse.org.  The cost to fill a box is $20 to $30 plus $9 ministry fee.  Our goal is 250 in person boxes.
• You can pack a box virtually.  Click here to go to the Hermitage Hills virtual packing page.  With just a few clicks, you can pack a box by selecting the toys and other fun items you'd like to include from the online options.  You can personalize your box with a personal letter or photo. The suggested donation to pack a virtual box is $25.  Our goal is 250 virtual boxes.  The deadline to build virtual boxes is November 28.

Boxes are available now in the Library.  The deadline to drop off a filled box in person is Sunday, November 15.  You can drop off your box in the lobby or by bringing it by the church office during the week through November 13.  If you decide to pack a virtual box, the deadline is November 28.  Thank you for helping us share the love of Christ with children around the world.