How to Pack a Shoebox

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.

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, school supplies, and personal care items. 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.

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 evangelism materials, 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 printed 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. 17–24, 2025.