The deadline to turn in Operation Christmas Child boxes is quickly approaching and Warren County has not quite reached its goal yet.
Operation Christmas Child is where people fill shoeboxes with various items to send to other countries for Christmas. Booklets are also placed in the boxes that help teach the gospel. This shoebox is the only gift most of these children receive.
Coordinator Debbie Patterson says the 2022 goal for Warren County is 4,650 boxes, and as of Thursday night they have packed 3,764. She says they still need some more boxes from churches, clubs, groups and families.
“This is a fun project for families, individuals, churches and groups to get involved in,” said Patterson. “It teaches about giving without knowing who you are giving to and at the same time you get that warm, fuzzy feeling you are making a difference in the life of a child and their families and communities. A simple gift packed in a shoebox with items like school supplies, hygiene items, simple toys like a yo-yo, jump ropes, small cars and trucks, etch a sketch or a slinky. We like to include a soccer ball and pump, a stuffed animal or doll as our WOW items.”
Patterson is thankful for all the churches who have already dropped off their boxes. She says Gath Baptist Church donated 335, Freedom Life Church donated 906, Rock Island Cumberland Presbyterian donated 103, New Union Church donated 180 and Christ Chapel donated 82. First Baptist had 335 and are still packing, Martin Chapel donated 218, Centertown Methodist UMW group donated 40 and Shellsford Baptist donated 101.
Boxes can be packed for a boy or girl ages 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Patterson says to use a regular shoebox or a similarly sized plastic box. Patterson is encouraging everyone to pack a box or two and help reach the goal.
The final day to drop off a box or other donations is Monday, Nov. 21. There are two drop-off locations in Warren County: First Baptist Church at 403 N Spring St in McMinnville and Covenant Fellowship at 7225 Nashville Hwy. in Morrison. For questions or information call 931-473~4416
