This is our first year participating in packing shoe boxes to send to children through Operation Christmas Child. Our daughters decided to pack shoe boxes for girls their own age, so on Monday afternoon I took them to the store and let them select the items they wanted to be included. When we got home, they wanted to fill the boxes immediately. Yesterday each of the girls wrote a little note to include with the gifts. I plan to drop off the shoe boxes tomorrow and think it will be interesting to track our packages and see in which country they arrive.
I look forward to making this a yearly tradition. I appreciate the opportunity to teach our daughters about giving to others. It was fun watching them choose just what they thought “their girl” might like. Having a generous spirit and sharing with those in need is a “finer thing” to pass on to our children.
Does your family participate in this program? If so, please let me know about your experience!
This post is linked to Finer Things Friday.
I have heard about this program in the past. When I went to the coupon class in Cleveland a few months ago I had the opportunity to watch a video and learn a lot more about it. I decided right then and there that I was going to send a box (or two!) this year. The speaker was telling us she has been on several trips to see the shoe boxes being passed out and it is unreal to see the joy on a childs face to get things we take for granted: toothpaste, toothbrush, and crayons.
We participate with our churches. Put boxes together in Sunday School with items that everyone gathered and shared. This is one of my FAVORITE giving opportunities.
What a GREAT!!! tradition. We do something like this at Christmas. I have each of my grand-daughters do a gift filled with things they want to give. We have fun making each one of their packages.
THANKS!!! for sharing your WONDERFUL!!! tradition.
Geri