Operation Christmas Child '25 Kickoff

Operation Christmas Child Starts

It’s that time again—Operation Christmas Child is here! This is such a beautiful opportunity to bless a child across the world with the love of Jesus this Christmas season.

Our goal: Pack 1,000 shoeboxes this year and build 100 boxes online—and we need your help to make it happen!

How to participate:

Grab a box in the lobby anytime between October 16–November 9 and fill it with gifts for a child.
Return all filled boxes by November 9.

Prefer to build online? It’s easy!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the last day to turn in boxes?
The final day to turn in boxes is November 9. Please get your boxes in as soon as you can.

Where can I turn in my box?
You can drop off your completed box at Event Central during any service time between October 16–November 9, or bring it to the church office during open hours.

What if I can’t decide which age range to choose for my box?
Try to approximate the best fit and check off the age range that seems most appropriate.

If my box is bulging with gifts and won’t close, what should I do?
It’s best to use a large rubber band to secure the lid instead of taping it shut.

Where do the boxes go after we turn them in?
Boxes are picked up by a regional representative from Samaritan’s Purse and taken to Burlington to be collected from several southeast Wisconsin locations. From there, they are sent to Chicago and shipped all over the world to children in need.

Where should I place my payment if I’m adding it to the box?
Place your payment envelope on top of your items inside the box. When Samaritan’s Purse staff open it in Chicago, they’ll need to locate the payment quickly to ensure it’s processed properly.

How do I pay for shipping?
It’s preferred to pay online using the instructions in your box.
If you prefer to pay by check, make it payable to *Samaritan’s Purse* and send to:
Samaritan’s Purse – Operation Christmas Child
PO Box 3000
Boone, NC 28607

Can I add more money than the suggested amount?
Yes. You can include extra funds inside your box or hand them to one of the table volunteers.

How much does shipping cost?
$10.00 per box.

Can I pack a box online instead?
Yes. You can easily build a shoebox online by visiting [samaritanspurse.org](https://samaritanspurse.org).

How can I track my box?
Tap or scan the QR code on your box label. You’ll be able to follow your box’s journey and see where in the world it’s delivered.

If I pack a box online, will it count toward Lakeland Church’s total?
Yes. Please make sure to scan the QR code found at the Lakeland OCC table before building your box online so it’s attributed to Lakeland.