Each January, a lot of people set aside one large tote for the next Operation Christmas Child project. This plastic bin sits in one of our closets, and we add to it all throughout the year.
Around here, we are firm believers that it is absolutely acceptable to re-gift! At birthdays, holidays, etc. my kid receives an unbelievable amount of stuff, and encouraging them to share some of their bounty serves as a great teaching opportunity. Too many stocking stuffers? An overwhelming number of Easter basket fillers? We like to pass some of those goodies along to other kids!
Operation Christmas Child is a charitable initiative organized by Samaritan's Purse, where individuals and groups fill shoeboxes with gifts and essentials to be distributed to children in need around the world. The goal is to bring joy and share the love of Christmas with children who may not otherwise receive gifts. When packing an Operation Christmas Child box, it's important to include a balance of practical and fun items. Here are some suggestions:
-
Toys: Include small toys such as dolls, cars, balls, puzzles, yo-yos, jump ropes, stuffed animals, or building blocks.
-
School Supplies: Pens, pencils, crayons, markers, notebooks, erasers, sharpeners, and other school essentials can be incredibly helpful for children's education.
-
Hygiene Items: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, washcloths, and hairbrushes are important items that promote good hygiene.
-
Clothing and Accessories: Socks, hats, scarves, gloves, T-shirts, and hair accessories are practical additions.
-
Non-Liquid Toiletries: Avoid liquids or items that could leak and ruin other contents. Instead, opt for solid deodorants or soaps.
-
Candy and Treats: Individually wrapped candies or small snacks can bring some extra joy during the holiday season.
-
Art Supplies: Colored pencils, drawing pads, and stickers can encourage creativity and self-expression.
-
School Bags or Totes: A small backpack or cloth tote bag can be used to carry the items and have practical use for the child.
-
Cloth Face Masks: Given the global situation, including cloth face masks could be helpful.
-
Personal Note or Photo: Consider adding a personal note or a photo of yourself or your family. It adds a special touch and lets the child know someone cares.
When packing the box, it's important to keep in mind the age and gender of the child you intend to send it. Additionally, it's best to avoid including items that may be considered culturally inappropriate or potentially harmful. Before sending your box, check Samaritan's Purse website or local drop-off locations for any specific guidelines or restrictions.
Lastly, remember that it's not just the items inside the box that matter, but the thought and love behind the gesture. Your small act of kindness can bring joy and hope to a child in need during the holiday season.
Choosing gifts for kids for charity requires careful consideration to ensure that you select items that are both thoughtful and appropriate. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
-
Age-Appropriate Gifts: Consider the age group of the kids you are buying for. Gifts suitable for toddlers may not be suitable for older children and vice versa. Ensure that the gifts are safe and enjoyable for the specific age range.
-
Popular Items: Look for gifts that are popular among kids, such as toys related to popular cartoon characters, board games, art supplies, or sports equipment. These items are more likely to bring joy to the recipients.
-
Unisex and Inclusive Choices: Opt for gifts that can be enjoyed by all genders. Avoid gender-specific gifts that might perpetuate stereotypes.
-
Educational Value: Consider gifts that have some educational value, like books, puzzles, science kits, or building blocks. These items can help promote learning and cognitive development.
-
Interactive and Creative: Choose gifts that encourage creativity and imagination. Art sets, musical instruments (if appropriate), or DIY craft kits can be great options.
-
Comfort and Warmth: For some charity organizations that focus on children in need, practical gifts like warm clothing, blankets, or hygiene items can be incredibly valuable.
-
Cultural Sensitivity: If you are buying gifts for children from diverse backgrounds, be mindful of cultural sensitivity. Avoid gifts that may be culturally inappropriate or offensive.
-
Quality over Quantity: Focus on quality rather than quantity. It's better to provide a few well-thought-out gifts that will be cherished, rather than a large number of cheap items that might not be as useful or enjoyable.
-
Consider Local Conditions: If the charity is in a specific location or climate, consider the local conditions when selecting gifts. For example, toys that are suitable for outdoor play might be more appreciated in certain areas.
.jpg)
-
Check with the Charity: Reach out to the charity or organization to see if they have any specific guidelines or recommendations for gift donations. They may have insights into the needs and preferences of the children they support.
-
Non-Material Gifts: In some cases, non-material gifts can be just as valuable, if not more. Consider donating funds to the charity directly or offering experiences like workshops, outings, or educational opportunities for the children.
-
Safety Considerations: Ensure that the gifts you choose meet safety standards and do not contain small parts or choking hazards, especially for younger children.
By taking these factors into account, you can select gifts that will bring joy and make a positive impact on the lives of the children receiving them. Remember, the goal is to bring happiness and show that someone cares for them during challenging times.
Contact Us
Cards Accepted
Shoe Box News
- Select a medium to large shoe box supplier gift items item such as a soccer ball with a pump or stuffed animal, then fill it with other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. Don’t forget to also include a personal note and photo—sometimes these are the child's favorite things to receive!
- Find 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 that you might find in the closet. These shoeboxes can be lasting gifts for children to store. cherished items.
- Toys: Include small toys such as dolls, cars, balls, puzzles, yo-yos, jump ropes, stuffed animals, or building blocks. School Supplies: Pens, pencils, crayons, markers, notebooks, erasers, sharpeners, and other school essentials can be incredibly helpful for children's education.