Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, collected 11,330,126 gift-filled shoeboxes globally in 2023—425,209 of these were packed in Canada. Each shoebox gift is a tangible express of God’s love and shares the true meaning of Christmas with children, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster.
Prince George and area filled 1,331 of those shoeboxes – a 13 per cent increase over 2022’s 1,180.
Samaritan’s Purse is celebrating the overwhelming generosity of volunteers who packed these shoebox gifts for boys and girls around the world. Each shoebox—filled with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—will bring joy to children in need. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiastic participation of Canadians in Operation Christmas Child,” said Kendra Shields, Operation Christmas Child’s Canadian director. “It is very encouraging to know that so many generous people want to give hope and joy to children in need around the world.”
Across Canada, shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at SamaritansPurse.ca/OCC or by calling 1-800-303-1269
Although drop‑off locations for gifts are closed until November, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few easy clicks at PackaBox.ca. These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.