Operation Christmas Child
FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) about Operation Christmas Child |
1. Do I have to use the ready-made boxes?
Absolutely not...if you would like to wrap your own shoebox, please do. The brightly wrapped boxes are so pretty! Just make sure you wrap the box and cover separately so it can be opened. Another suggestion is to use shoebox sized plastic boxes. You don't have to wrap the outside, but it looks pretty when the inside of the box is wrapped along the sides. However, that is not required. Seeing all the items is through the plastic is great, too! 2. What if I can't fill boxes, but still want to donate something; what can I do?
I am happy to accept checks for either a donation to Samaritan's Purse (made out to Samaritan's Purse with OCC in the memo box) or to me to use toward items missing in boxes. I will give you a receipt for your donation. Also, you can buy a large number of items; for example, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bars of soap, pencils, crayons, etc., and most importantly, small stuffed animals. Every box has to have a cuddly animal in it. HOWEVER, you must give me these items or donations very soon! Please don't wait until the last week of collection. I will not have time to buy other items needed and fill boxes by that point. Thanks! Please contact me if you wish to do something like that. 3. If I donate more than one box, do I have to write out separate checks for each box? No, you can write one check for all the boxes and just put it in one of your boxes. Also, please do not put in cash.
4. Is there a way for me to know where my box goes? Yes, go to samaritanspurse.org/occ and it will walk you through the process for tracking your boxes. It is fun to receive a notice of where your box went!
5. Where is the area collection site in case I can't get my box(es) to Trinity by the 22nd? Our collection site is Wintonbury Baptist Church in Bloomfield. The last day it will collect boxes is Monday, Nov. 23.
6. Should I include letters, a card, or pictures giving personal information? This is up to you. I have done so throughout the years. I give our names in a short, happy note and have included my address so the children can respond. I have not received any responses, but a pastor from one of the villages did write and ask for financial help for his church. Please be aware. However, if you read the story of the young woman who received an OCC box from a young boy from America and eventually married him many years later, you know happiness can grow out of communicating with the recipients. There are many testimonials to friendships and visits which have occurred from letters included in these boxes. If you would rather not include your address, etc., please don't, but a Christmas card or uplifting note is a wonderful thing to send!
7. What if I don't have the "boy/girl" label that goes on top of the box? No problem. Just write the information (age and gender) on a piece of paper and tape it to the top of the box. The formal label is not crucial.
8. Is there any one item more important than another? Any we should include? Yes, please include a wash cloth, a bar of soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, and a cuddly stuffed animal. This has to be small to fit in the ready made boxes, but every child gets something to hold and cuddle no matter the size! Also, please sharpen pencils if you send those, or include a small pencil sharpener. Remember, no liquids! Also, hard candy, lollipops, skittles, gum or any non-chocolate candy are big hits. Do not include war toys.
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I urge all of you to read about Operation Christmas Child. |
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Thank you again for your support and enthusiasm! |
You will be inspired by the work the volunteers do and read heart-grabbing stories about the children. If there is something I did not cover in this article and you need an answer, please do not hesitate to call or write me: (860) 758-4375 or elaineshawct@gmail.com
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