Operation Christmas Child will open drop‑off locations across the U.S

Operation Christmas Child will open drop‑off locations across Maryland during National Collection Week, Nov. 16–23, as volunteers prepare to gather gift‑filled shoeboxes for children in need. The project, led by Samaritan’s Purse, supports children facing war, poverty, disease and disaster.

How to Participate in Operation Christmas Child

Nearly 5,000 drop‑off sites will operate nationwide during the collection period. Maryland participants can search for local sites and hours using the online lookup tool, which lists locations by city or ZIP code. Signs at each site will identify official drop‑off points.

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered gift‑filled shoeboxes to children in more than 175 countries and territories. The project aims to reach 12.8 million children in 2026, according to Samaritan’s Purse.

Packers can follow the step‑by‑step guide on the “How to Pack a Shoebox” webpage. Shoeboxes often include toys, school supplies and hygiene items selected for specific age groups.

Program Partners With Churches Worldwide

Operation Christmas Child works with churches across the globe to distribute shoeboxes and share messages of hope. Participants may donate $10 per shoebox through the “Follow Your Box” option, which provides a tracking label showing the gift’s destination.

Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, said the gifts carry lasting meaning.

“Shoebox gifts may seem simple, but they have an eternal impact. Each box is an opportunity to tell a boy or girl in need about the true meaning of Christmas,” he said.

“I’ve delivered these boxes around the world, and I never get tired of seeing the joy that they bring—even in the midst of disasters, war, and poverty.”

About Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child has delivered over 244 million shoeboxes since its launch. The project remains one of Samaritan’s Purse’s largest annual outreach efforts, designed to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way and support children in crisis.

Participants can begin preparing their shoeboxes now and plan their drop‑off visit during National Collection Week.

Updates and location details are available through the online lookup tool.