I am writing to thank area residents for sharing the true meaning of Christmas with children in need this past holiday season.
Because of the generosity of donors across the United States, Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, collected more than 8.9 million shoebox gifts in 2019. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2019, the ministry is now sending 10,569,405 shoebox gifts to children worldwide. Through shoeboxes — packed with toys, school supplies and hygiene items — volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received.
It’s not too late to make a difference. Though most drop-off locations are closed until Nov. 16-23, 2020, information about year-round volunteer opportunities can also be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ.
Dana Williams
Boone, N.C
The writer is assistant manager of media relations for Samaritan’s Purse.