Summer is barely here but before we know it, it will be time to put our shoeboxes together for Operation Christmas Child!
There are a couple of important updates for 2017 that you need to be aware of:
- Toothpaste and Candy will no longer be allowed in boxes.
This is due to shipping and customs issues. No toothpaste also includes toothpaste powder (which I just learned was a thing.) BUT toothbrushes are ok so please continue to send toothbrushes! Absolutely no candy of any kind will be allowed anymore. And just a reminder, food items have never been allowed. No liquids (including lotion) of any kind either. Bar soap is great – just bag it in TWO ziplocs.
- The shipping donation has increased to $9 per box.
There is a lot that goes into getting the boxes to their destination. The warehouses where they are processed and stored have to be paid for. And every box is transported by multiple trucks, planes, boats, camels and donkeys (no kidding). Part of the $9 includes the gospel materials in each box and training and equipping local churches in the OCC program, The Greatest Journey. Samaritan’s Purse has a nice article here on what all the $9 pays for.
Be sure to read my article on 5 Things Every Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Needs (+a few good suggestions)
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