Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions we hear frequently about Operation Christmas Child

Q. WHAT SHOULD I PUT IN MY SHOE BOX?

A. We have put together a list of suggestions and things to avoid when packing your box. Please watch the video here and go to our page, "How to Pack A Shoe Box".

Q. DO I HAVE TO USE A SHOE BOX?

A. No, you may also use a similarly sized plastic storage container with a removable lid or other similarly sized box.

Q. CAN I WRAP MY SHOE BOX?

A. Yes, but please remember to wrap the lid separately.

Q. WHERE SHOULD I TAKE MY FINISHED SHOE BOX?

A. We have drop-off locations around the nation. Find the center closest to you here.

Q. WHEN IS THE DEADLINE FOR GETTING MY BOX IN TO YOU?

A. National Collection Week is November 16-23, but you may send completed boxes year-round to our headquarters:

Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan's Purse
P.O. Box 3000
801 Bamboo Road
Boone, NC 28607

Q. WHERE WILL MY SHOE BOX BE DELIVERED?

A. Shoe box destination countries vary from year to year.

Q. HOW ELSE CAN I PARTNER WITH OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD IN ADDITION TO PACKING A SHOE BOX?

A. We need volunteers during the months of November and December. For more information, check out our volunteer opportunities page.

Q. WHAT DOES THE $7 COVER? CAN I SEND CASH?

A. A donation of $7 or more helps us cover project expenses like shipping the boxes. We prefer that these donations be made by check or by using our new online donation option (called "EZGive").

Q. IF I SEND MORE THAN ONE BOX, CAN I WRITE ONE CHECK FOR ALL OF THEM?

A. Yes, you may write one check for them all and place it in any one of your boxes.

Q. WHAT IS THE MISSION OF OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD?

A. The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.