Generosity throughout Butler​​​​​ contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child. Nationwide the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries, the ministry is now sending more than 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide.

Through shoeboxes — packed with fun toys, school supplies and personal care items — Butler​​​​ area volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled box is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

Across Pennsylvania​​​​​, shoebox packers often shop for deals on items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ or by calling 717-774-1920.

Although drop‑off locations for shoebox gifts are closed until Nov. 18, anyone can be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few clicks at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline.

These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

Dolores Brown,

Samaritan’s Purse, marketing coordinator