Collection days for the Operation Christmas Child program in Weyburn will be held at the Weyburn Free Methodist Church on Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22 from 3 to 5 p .m.
The Operation Christmas Child program for Weyburn and area have new area drop-off leads who are collecting shoeboxes this year. Marna and Kelt McManus took over the lead position from Bev Alexander, and had assisted Alexander during last year’s program to learn about their new positions.
Operation Christmas Child is a hands-on way for Canadians to bless struggling children in the developing world by filling shoeboxes with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and other items. The annual program is held by Samaritan’s Purse.
Residents who need empty boxes delivered to their home or organization can text their address to Kelt and Marna at 306-891-8676 with the number of boxes and pamphlets required, or whether you'd like them flat or folded.
"Some children like to colour the boxes before they fold them, and some adults like to cover them in Christmas gift wrap first," said Marna McManus.
"As long as those bringing their boxes have their paperwork filled out in advance, collection should be contactless, but measures will be in place to ensure all goes safely and smoothly," assured Kelt McManus.
"The other thing that's different this year is the location of collection will be at the northeast door of the Weyburn Free Methodist Church, the Fellowship Hall entrance," he added.
Filling the shoebox is no different this year, with the same rules in place, such as no candy and no liquids (including no toothpaste or hand sanitizer), with toys, school supplies, and shoes being encouraged. Find out more suggestions online at https://www.samaritanspurse.ca/suggested-gifts/
"We encourage folks to pack shoeboxes this year as a way of reaching out in the spirit of Christmas," said Kelt. "The gifts aren't just a nice thing to do. They can actually make a big difference in the lives of the recipients."
The school supplies and the shoes, for example, enable children to go to school, and, for many children in third world countries, the lack of shoes are the main obstacle.
"Thanks in advance to anyone who would like to help us out this Saturday and Sunday to load the boxes onto the truck," requested Marna. "Being in the other end of the church helps with safety, but it involves a bit more leg work with the boxes of boxes."
With the COVID-19 restrictions in mind, Marna and Kelt urge those interested in packing shoeboxes to keep it within their families, or small church groups. There is also an option to pack a shoebox online at https://packabox.samaritanspurse.ca. Anyone who does decide to use the online option will have their virtual shoebox added to the total of in-person collections for Weyburn and area.
