Sometimes the most rewarding journeys are those that have no
clear destination.
I set out on such an adventure last September when I asked
each of you to help me make a difference in the world by donating a small holiday gift
to a child who would receive nothing else on Christmas morning.
I had no idea where the journey would lead, but the outcome
was extraordinary. I received packages of crayons, coloring books, puzzles, stickers, toothbrushes, washcloths
and even wild flower seeds. As the collection deadline drew near, last minute monetary donations came in via PayPal, which I used
to purchase socks, underwear and clothing. Together we donated nearly 200 pounds of gifts to Operation
Christmas Child via Samaritan’s Purse.
But for me, the greatest gift was having my own daughters,
nearly 3 and 5 at the time, assist in the packing, wrapping and delivering of boxes. A close second was
receiving notification from the charity just before the holiday that our gifts
were en route to children in both Panama & Mongolia. I couldn't wait to share the news with each of you...
Here's a glimpse at what Christmas morning looks like in my house.
If you could do something so simple to create a smile so grand, wouldn't you?
Well, I can help. The idea behind Operation Christmas Child is simple.
Pack a shoebox (or plastic tub of the same size) with items for a child in
need. You choose the sex, age range and what to give. Then drop it
off at one of numerous locations nationwide. You can choose where you’d
like it to be delivered, domestically or overseas, and track it’s arrival.
I am asking for the same deal as last year… I’ll buy the plastic (reusable) tubs, divide the gifts by age and sex, pack them, wrap them and deliver them. There is a $7 shipping
donation suggested per box, which I will cover, but I’d love for you to help me
collect the items to fill 'em up. No donation is too small or large, as
long as each individual item fits into a standard size shoebox. (I’ve
listed some suggestions below.)
Every box we fill is one more smile created. And while the holidays may seem far away, I urge you to get into the spirit a bit early.
This year, instead of just celebrating the season of
giving, celebrate being able to give…
Now, some housekeeping.
* There’s a list of suggested items on their site. I
have included personal items like soap, toothpaste & toothbrush, shampoo,
combs, band aids, socks, underwear, flip flops, sunglasses and sun hats.
Or something a little more fun like flashcards, toy cars, crayons, stickers, a
yo-yo, a jump rope, puzzles, coloring books, sidewalk chalk or a personal
holiday card. The possibilities are endless, and stores like Big Lots are a
great resource.
* If you’d like to donate, please email me
directly at KLPM16@gmail.com for address information.
(I am also happy to provide proof of last year’s donation.)
* Collection Week begins November 18th, so
please don’t delay! Thank you (109 days) in advance... and Happy Holidays!
