Operation Christmas Child — Samaritan's Purse

Join Our
Packing Party!

Come together to fill shoeboxes with gifts and bring joy to children around the world — while sharing the love of Jesus Christ.

All ages welcome Free to attend 100+ countries reached

What is a packing party?

A packing party is a fun, meaningful group event where our community comes together to pack shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items for children in need around the globe.

Each gift is more than a box of goodies — it carries the Good News of Jesus Christ to a child, many of whom have never received a gift before. Every shoebox packed at our party becomes part of Operation Christmas Child, distributed through local churches in over 100 countries.

Share the gospel

Each box opens a door for children to hear about Jesus and receive follow-up discipleship.

Serve together

All ages can take part — from kids helping sort items to adults organizing and packing boxes.

Pack a real gift

Fill a shoebox with a "wow" item and extras so a child feels special, seen, and loved.

Pray with purpose

Guided prayer moments throughout invite you to pack each box with a specific child in mind.

What to expect on the day

1

Welcome & vision — We'll open with a greeting, share the heart behind the ministry, and recognize donors and volunteers.

2

Training — A quick, easy walkthrough of how to pack a great shoebox — fun, full, and personalized — so every gift counts.

3

Packing begins — Move through item stations to fill your shoebox, write a personal letter, and pray over your gift.

4

Gospel moment — A short Gospel presentation reminds us why we pack: to share God's greatest gift through each box.

5

Celebration & closing — We'll celebrate our total boxes packed, close in prayer, and send you off with extras to pack at home!

What goes inside a shoebox?

Wow item

• Soccer ball & pump
• Stuffed animal
• Doll or toy vehicle
• Flashlight

Every box

• Notebook & pencils
• Colored pencils
• Toothbrush
• Washcloth or comb

Fun filler

• Sunglasses
• Toy cars or animals
• Drawstring bag
• Water bottle / hat

Aim for at least 14 items per box so it's filled to the brim. A suggested $10 donation per shoebox helps cover shipping and Gospel materials worldwide.

"Shoebox gifts are like snowflakes — no two are alike!"

— Franklin Graham, President, Samaritan's Purse