92 Ideas For Packing An Operation Christmas Child Shoebox

So often we take our blessings for granted and forget that much of the world is struggling just to survive.  Operation Christmas Child makes it their mission to see that we don’t forget – that we take a step back from our selfish natures and think of someone else. This is a great opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child who isn’t so lucky as our own.
The boxes arrived this week and we are encouraging you to take up the challenge. Stuff a shoebox full with little joys that will bring hope to a child in a desperate situation.


And to help you face this challenge with all the confidence of a child executive (↑) we’ve pulled together a list of 92 ideas to get you on your way.

School & Art Supplies

Notepads/post its
Colouring books
Markers/crayons
Pencils/pencil crayons
Pencil sharpener
Erasers
Pens
Pencil case
Safety scissors
Glue stick
Ruler
Solar calculator
Self-inking stamp
Water color set and paint brushes
Little crafting kit – beads
Travel sewing kit
Dry erase board & markers
Duct tape
Tape measure

Grooming & Hygeine

Comb
Brush
Dental Floss
Soap (put in plastic baggie)
Toothbrush
Small hand mirror – unbreakable
Colourful bandages
Baby wipes
Wash cloth
Hand towel
Tissues
Emery boards
Nail clippers
Hair ribbons
Ponytail holders
Barrettes
Hairbands
Bracelets
Necklace
Clip-on earrings

Clothing

Hat
Ball cap
Gloves
Bandannas
Scarf
Shoelaces
Sunglasses
Socks
T-shirt
Flip flops
Watch
Plastic poncho in packet

Just for Fun

Individual sealed play-dough
Silly putty
Small stuffed animals or dolls
Inflatable beach balls
Bouncy Balls
Soccer ball (with needle & pump)
Slinkies
Finger puppets
Legos
Jigsaw puzzle
Mini magnetic check board & checkers
Flash cards
Picture books
Bean bag
Hacky sack
Balloons
Toy binoculars
Slipping rope
Paddle ball
Yo-Yo
Harmonica
Tambourine
Kazoo
Toy cars/trucks
Compass
Solar-powered flashlight
Glow sticks
Plastic eating utensils
Toy pots & pans 

And Don’t Forget

to pray for the child who will receive your gift
to add a personal letter and photo of yourself/your family
to include $7 to cover the shipping fees 

Do Not Include: food or candy of any kind, toothpaste, used items, breakable items, decks of playing cards, items that could leak, melt, or freeze (shampoo, creams, lip balm, etc.), items that can scare or harm a child (war-related toys, knives, toy guns, etc.)

Be sure to bring your boxes back to the church by November 8.

Happy packing!