Operation Christmas Child
The Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child collects shoe box gifts‑filled with fun toys, school supplies and hygiene items—and delivers them to children in need around the world to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way. For many of these children, the gift—filled shoe box is the first gift they have ever received.
East Balsam Baptist Church has been involved with Operation Christmas Child for over 30 years and finds this to be a highlight of our holiday gift giving season. This year our church goal is to pack 1,000 boxes! We are now a drop off location for individuals and other area churches (see the drop off dates for 2026 below)!
How can you help?
Here are ways you can get involved in the Operation Christmas Child Ministry at East Balsam Baptist:
- Donate funds to help with shipping, supplies, and gifts here.
- Donate supplies such as toothbrushes, hair combs, small toys, coloring crayons and more (more ideas here). These donations can be left in the OCC donation bin at the church.
- Help pack boxes. Join our church family for a few hours in November as we pack boxes to be sent to a child across the world. This years event will be held on Saturday November 7, 2026.
Mark Your Calendar
July 26, 2026 – Christmas in July
November 7, 2026 – EBBC Packing Event
November 16-23, 2026 – Drop Off Days
March is PERSONAL CARE DRIVE month for OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD. Items that can be donated are washcloths, combs, brushes, nail clippers/files and toothbrushes. Donated items may be left by the OCC display in the fellowship area.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about this ministry you can contact Cheryl Volgren at cvolgren@gmail.com.