Operation Christmas Child

 

Christmas Child box:

  1. Girl or Boy?
    Decide whether you will pack a box for a girl or a boy, and what age category you're shopping for: 2–4 years, 5–9 years, or 10–14 years.
  2. Fill with Gifts.
    Select a medium to large “wow” item such as a soccer ball with pump or stuffed animal, then fill with other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. You can also include a personal note and photo.
  3. Donate $10 online and receive a label to Follow Your Box and discover the destination of your shoebox gift.

Also, here are a few ideas that Operation Christmas Child shared on their site as far as suggestions for all ages:

 

 

    TOYS: Include items that children will immediately embrace such as dolls, toy cars, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), etc.
    SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
    NON-LIQUID HYGIENE ITEMS:Toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.
    ACCESSORIES: T-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with batteries), etc.

 
   A PERSONAL NOTE: You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. If you include your name and address, the child may be able to write back.


What is NOT allowed in Operation Christmas Child boxes?

There are a few items that shouldn't be packed in the boxes:                              Candy; toothpaste; gum; used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; seeds; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; as well as aerosol cans.