The annual Samaritan's Purse International Relief Operation Christmas Child shoebox campaign has officially begun in Innisfail.
The annual Samaritan's Purse International Relief Operation Christmas Child shoebox campaign has officially begun in Innisfail.
Last year's campaign resulted in 561 boxes being delivered to the Parkland Community Church and then to Calgary for packing, before being sent to Costa Rica to children in need.
"The shoeboxes are filled with school supplies, small gifts and personal hygiene items that Canadians take for granted, and are shipped to other countries where children are in need of these supplies," said John Fehr, district coordinator for Operation Christmas Child. "While Canadian children are safe and clean, many around the world are not. What we take for granted is a luxury to them. This is our opportunity to share our love with someone halfway around the world and make a difference in their lives."
John and his wife Dorothy, both Innisfail residents, are serving this year as district coordinators for Operation Christmas Child. "This is the second year operating out of Innisfail," said John. "In previous years my wife and I have worked with Samaritan's Purse International Relief packing boxes in Red Deer that got sent onward."
John said 2013 marked an increase in the number of boxes from Innisfail and area.
"In 2012, we had 450 boxes delivered, and with a closer collection point there were more donations. The bulk of boxes come from local churches and schools but we do have people from as far away as Wimborne who bring their donations," added John.
John and Dorothy said they have a big heart for children, and would like to follow the process from packing boxes to distributing them to the children directly.
Samaritan's Purse International Relief, an international organization, is headed by Franklin Graham, the son of world-renowned speaker and preacher Billy Graham.
Last year, more than 600,000 boxes were collected in Canada.
Information on Operation Christmas Child or shoeboxes can be obtained by calling Dorothy or John at 403-227-4676 or 403-358-8186. Boxes can be dropped off at the Parkland Community Church.
