Not too late to be part of ‘Operation Christmas Child’

MAT-SU — Operation Christmas Child has shared more than 100 million simple shoebox gifts with boys and girls in more than 130 countries since the effort began in 1993. And again this year, Valley residents and many church congregations added to that tally.

While most congregation members at Wasilla Christian Church began preparing their boxes in August, some members collected items year-round, according to Christy Pinkerton, who led the effort there.

Each shoebox contained a variety of special treats such as stuffed animals, candy, small toys, personal hygiene items, school supplies and clothing.

To add to the joy of giving, each box also can be tracked online so donors know what country the gift went to and a little information about the child who receives the box.

On Sunday, the last day to turn in boxes, local volunteers were pleased to learn they had collected 424 shoeboxes, Pinkerton said.

It’s not too late to get involved. If you want to pack a shoebox gift for Operation Christmas Child, visit samaritanspurse.org and click on “Build a Shoebox Online.”