Operation Christmas Child

Make a difference for a child in need.

Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations worldwide through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God's love. Gift boxes from Northwoods families have reached the far corners of the world, and there have been exciting stories of grace and impact. We've even had gift box recipients visit Peoria and have sent a distribution team to give out boxes in India!

Every child who receives an Operation Christmas Child gift also receives the Gospel message in their language. Operation Christmas Child reports that an additional nine people will read that message. Also, many recipients will have the opportunity to participate in a 12-part discipleship program through local churches connected with Samaritan's Purse around the world. Every year, over 2 million children make a decision for Christ through OCC.

Build

iStock_43513294_LARGE-150x150-circle-11e244b9bfc9fb096edcc1aa79f78c81-.jpg

Find a shoebox

Use a shoebox you already have or pick one up at Northwoods.

Kids

Girl or Boy?

Choose whether you will pick a box for a boy or girl.

Ages: 2–4, 5–9, or 10–14

iStock_66375611_LARGE-150x150-circle-677d2eb970082650b25d8757e49e7b6e-.jpg

Fill with gifts

Select a quality "wow" toy such as a doll, ball with pump, or stuffed animal. Then add other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies.

iStock_15889133_LARGE-150x150-circle-898cf2e51a123dc20294e046fe13bdf0-.jpg

Pray

Pray for the child who will receive your gift. You can also include a personal note and photo.

Ship

Each box needs a $10 shipping donation to begin its journey to a child.

Church label

Scan the QR code with your phone to pay and activate tracking.

Available at the Peoria Campus

Print at home

Pay online, then print your label.

Track

Want to know where your shoebox was delivered?

Enter your nine-digit code to follow your box.

Buy

Would you like to participate in Operation Christmas Child, but you are short on time? Have you purchased a shoebox in the past from the Connections Bookstore and now you're at a loss? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Samaritan's Purse offers a way to build and purchase shoeboxes online. Click the link below to purchase a shoebox today!

Upcoming Events