Do you OCC?

I realize that the leaves are just starting to turn, just a few weeks ago it was still summer.  While the stores may be stocking Christmas decorations alongside the scarecrows and witches, you probably haven't even begun to think about your gift list.  But there is one gift you need to start thinking about now....a shoebox.

If you have never heard of Operation Christmas Child, stick with me a minute and let me fill you in.  OCC is a division of Samaritan's Purse, "a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world".  Samaritan's Purse has been on this mission for over 40 years and consistently receives a 4 star rating from Charity Navigator (the highest ranking).  One of their programs is Operation Christmas Child, which began in 1993.  OCC's purpose is to provide children with a shoebox packed full of gifts as a reminder that there is a God who loves them and who sent His best gift, Jesus, to be their Savior.  In each box you pack, Samaritan's Purse adds a Gospel storybook in the child's own language telling them about the real gift of Christmas.  In addition, every child who recieves a box is invited to attend a 12 week discipleship, program free of charge, offered by local churches.  When they complete the program, each child also recieves copy of the New Testament.  What a great way to bring God's Word to the world, but don't take my word for it.  Watch the video below.



So my question to you is, are you packing a shoebox this year?  It's really easy!  Grab a shoebox (or a plastic box of equivalent size) and add toys (no war toys please!), hygiene items (please wrap soap in a plastic bag), hard candy and gum.  Avoid liquids, anything that could melt (chocolates for example) and glass.  Visit Samaritan's purse for information about how to donate money to assist in shipping costs and to find out where you can drop off you box.  If you chose to donate online you can even find out where your shoebox goes! 

Until the week of November 11th I will be posting ideas of items you can make to include in your shoebox.  This week is an adorable little princess crown you can crochet.  I made one for my princess to wear on her birthday.

 

The pattern is called Sweet Little Tiara, designed by Sarah Cooper.  You can download her pattern for free here.  All you need is a crochet hook, size 3 thread (or two strands of size 10 held together) and a headband.  I made this one in less than an hour!

Until next time,