Operation Christmas Child plans to collect shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, Nov. 16–22, 2020. Shoebox donors can find their nearest drop-off locations by early November. The best way to stay up-to-date on any changes this season is by continuing to check this page and by visiting our social media channels.

We strongly encourage packing parties to follow local government guidelines. If your church or group shoebox goal is impacted by COVID-19, you may want to consider packing shoeboxes online.

With nearly 400 drop-off locations planned in 2020, we understand that each community, region, and province may be at a different phase of COVID-19 recovery during National Collection Week. Samaritan’s Purse is developing resources and procedures for drop-off locations to customize their collection to ensure the safety and well-being of both donors and volunteers. This may include providing required personal protective equipment to developing procedures for a touch-free experience for donors.

Samaritan’s Purse continues to plan for a traditional processing season with volunteers, but we understand disease trends may prevent this from occurring. In this case, contingency plans are being developed that would still allow volunteers to process shoeboxes even if social distance restrictions are needed. Also, additional personal protective equipment will be readily available and additional cleaning protocols are being developed for the Processing Center in 2020. We encourage you to check this page for the latest information.

We are continuing ministry overseas. Operation Christmas Child is working directly with our international volunteer leadership teams in over 100 countries to assess ongoing ministry activity with some modifications according to local government guidelines.

Yes! Now more than ever, children need to have the reassurance that they are loved by God. We believe in the urgency of reaching communities with the eternal hope of the Gospel, especially in these uncertain times. Shoebox gifts—and our follow-up discipleship program, The Greatest Journey—are powerful tools to share this Good News with millions of people around the world.

The health and safety of our staff, local partners, and beneficiaries is of utmost importance to us. Samaritan’s Purse is constantly monitoring COVID-19 trends around the world. In addition, Operation Christmas Child is working directly with our international volunteer leadership teams in over 100 countries to assess ongoing ministry activity with some modifications according to local government guidelines.

Samaritan’s Purse and the Operation Christmas Child team encourages everyone to follow local guidelines and use personal discernment to shop for shoebox items. Many stores are opening around the country and online shopping is a popular method for participants.

The best way to stay informed is to stay current on our social media channels and to continue checking this page.

At this time there are no changes as to what can and can’t be packed in shoebox gifts this year. We encourage you to continue visiting this page for the latest updates.