Start with an average-size cardboard or plastic shoebox. If you want to wrap it, cover the box and lid separately. You can use your own shoeboxes or order our colorful preprinted ones, available in both cardboard and plastic. These sturdy options hold up well and can be lasting gifts in themselves for children to store cherished items.

Visit our Label Options page to find out whether an adhesive or printable label is best for you. Whichever you choose, use the label to indicate on your shoebox whether it was packed for a boy or girl and which age category: 2–4, 5–9, or 10–14.

Select a medium to large "wow" item such as a soccer ball with pump or stuffed animal, then fill with other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. Don’t forget to also include a personal note and photo—sometimes these are the child's favorite things to receive!

Or download and print our list of suggested gifts.

Most importantly, "pray without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:17) for the child who will receive your shoebox gift.

Please also pray for:
• Their family to also be receptive to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
• The pastor of the church who delivers your shoebox gift.
• Their community to be transformed by the Gospel.

Join our Prayer Network and receive ways you can continue to pray for Operation Christmas Child.

A donation of $10 per box is critical to cover shipping and other project costs. For easiest processing, you can give online through our Label Options or Ways to Give pages, or by mailing a check in the postage-paid envelope available in our print brochure. If you use an online option on the Labels page, you can Follow Your Box and discover the destination of your gift.

Take your shoebox gift to a local drop-off location during National Collection Week, Nov. 13–20, 2023.