Operation Christmas Child!

Last Friday night, I went to Boone, North Carolina along with my Nana and Poppy. We went there to help with shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child. 

I could not believe what a beautiful facility they have in Boone. It was so big we couldn't even find where we were supposed to go. We went there with Nana and Poppy's church and we had so much fun! I have already told Nana to sign me up for next year.

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." -3 John 1:4

It was so rewarding and fulfilling to know that every shoebox I inspected would be opened up by a sweet little child who would be so grateful for this gift. My Nana and I would look at the items in the shoebox and get all excited because we could just imagine how the child would smile and be happy with their box. 

This was half of the warehouse. It was packed full of boxes for us to inspect.

The other half....more boxes!

Me inspecting shoeboxes.

Nana having fun!

Nana and I

*sorry for the quality, these were taken from my phone*

I had so much fun volunteering for Operation Christmas Child. I plan on doing it every year. I have decided that next year, for every pair of shoes that I buy, I will fill it full of items for these sweet children. It really touched me to know that these items were going to children who need and will appreciate this shoebox.

A few facts about Operation Christmas Child:

800 million shoeboxes delivered last year

Over 130 countries have received boxes since 1993

One mission....

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.

"I received many items in my box- pencils, school supplies and other things. I am very happy because we can't afford to buy those items. But the greatest gift I received was Jesus Christ." -Gemher, Philippines, age 9

This was a wonderful experience and I am counting down the days till next year. I would love if each of you would fill a shoebox for these children. Just grab a shoebox stuff it with hygiene items (no liquids), school supplies, toys, hard candy, flashlight, batteries and a letter or card. Then go online to Samaritan's Purse and download a label for your box. You can also track your box so that you know where it goes. 

They gave every volunteer a free t-shirt and Christmas ornament...

It is my new favorite!

Tasha