Operation Christmas Child
Shoebox Joy in Ethiopia for the First Time in Nearly 30 Years
25 March 2025
For the first time in nearly 30 years, the red and green Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts arrived on the laps of children in Ethiopia.
Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan’s Purse. It is a hands-on way for you to bless children in need across the world by filling shoeboxes with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and fun gifts. We collect the boxes and distribute them in the name of Jesus Christ to children living in vulnerable situations.
The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to provide God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Are you interested in serving with Operation Christmas Child? Whether it’s packing a gift-filled shoebox, volunteering, leading your church, or donating, we have many opportunities for you to get involved and make an eternal difference!
Missing packing a shoebox in 2024? It’s not too late to send a shoebox online which share God’s love to countries sensitive to the Gospel.
Your donations help to supports shoebox collection, processing, and shipping, as well as ministry partner training and Gospel materials. You can also select to donate to a particular area such as The Greatest Journey.
Each pack includes 25 pre-printed cardboard shoeboxes, ready to fold and fill. Perfect for group packing or sharing with family and friends so everyone can join in.
Every child who receives a shoebox is given the opportunity to attend a 12-lesson discipleship program. Over half make decisions for Christ!!
By serving year-round or seasonal with Operation Christmas Child, you’ll be a part of proclaiming the Gospel in over 100 countries.
See the latest updates from our ministry and see photos and videos from shoebox packers around Australia and New Zealand.
