OCC

It has been a tradition in our marriage to participate in Operation Christmas Child each year. We select a gender and age group (which we vary every year) and collect items that would be appropriate to send him or her for Christmas.

::via::

Last year we had G shop with us, but seeing as she was still itty bitty, she was basically just along for the ride. This year however, she was much more involved.

We began by collecting our items. There are many suggestions on how and what to pack on the OCC website.

This year we chose to do a boy, ages 5-9. This works out well because my hubby enjoys picking out things for a little boy (since we only have a girl) and I like the age group because it's similar to the age that I teach at school and I have a generally good idea about the things they like.

Some of the items that made their way into the box...

Many churches that participate provide shoe boxes or the official OCC boxes. Our church provided both, but I always opt to send a plastic container. I do this for a few reasons. First, they are more durable. They travel well and are more sturdy. Secondly, they are reusable. The child can keep items in the box and reuse it over and over. Finally, for those who must collect food or water, it serves as a great container to carry such things.

Once we've bought our items, I wrap them in fun colored tissue paper. Some years I wrap each item in wrapping paper. Next year I plan to wrap them in things that can be reused such as handkerchiefs or scarves.

G helped me organize the items in the box.

 

 

Once everything is packaged up I usually write a letter and include a picture. I thought I'd try something different this year. I chose to trace our hands on the box lid and I included a little note: "These hands are being used to pray for you." We then pray over our box, asking the Lord to bless the child that receives it.

The great thing about this project is that anyone can do it! You do not have to be part of a church to send encouragement and gifts to a child somewhere in the world. You can find a drop-off location near you by visiting here. They also have a fun option if you register your box online. You can get a tracking number that allows you to find out which country your box is delivered to. We tried this last year but did not have a successful go. We did not attempt it again this year but may try again in the future.

We love this project and we look forward to it each year. It is one of our objectives as parents to teach our daughter the importance of kindness, gratitude and giving. This simple, fun, family friendly activity reiterates so many of those faith-based characteristics in a hands-on way.

If you haven't joined in this year, I strongly encourage you to do so. You never know how a little box can make big change in the life of another.

Linking up with Annie