Operation Christmas Child helps families worldwide

Eastside Baptist Church has been participating in Operation Christmas Child for eight years. The project was created and is organized by Samaritan’s Purse.
Shoe boxes are filled with gifts, school supplies, hygiene items, candy, socks, hair claips and other items appropriate for children of various ages.
“We are a drop off point, and all the little towns bring them to us,” said Barbara Dreyer, coordinator.
The boxes are marked with a tag - boy, girl and age - and will be delivered to San Antonio next week.
“About three years ago we started buying plastic boxes instead of using regular shoe boxes because then the families can use the plastic ones for other things in the home,” said Dreyer.
“We’ve had people donate to help us shop for the (contents of the) boxes, but we need donations to help pay for postage for the cause.”
The group plans to prepare at least 65 boxes this year. The cost of postage is about $7 per box, and they need help.
Volunteers began collecting toys in August, stocking up for the season.  They will be loading boxes onto a truck to deliver to San Antonio, next Monday. The boxes go all over the world.  8-9 million boxes will go out this year.  Some are delivered in boats and canoes to villages in remote areas.
“It breaks your heart to see how much a yoyo or pen and pencil means to these children  that our kids take for granted,” said Dreyer.
“This project is a real blessing for so many children.”