Murfreesboro,  TN - In a heartwarming celebration of generosity and goodwill, area volunteers are rejoicing as tens of thousands of gift-filled shoeboxes are collected for Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse. This annual initiative, fueled by the dedication of volunteers, aims to send a powerful message to children across the globe: "God loves you, and you're not forgotten."

The project, now in its 30th year, gathered volunteers who packed shoeboxes with an array of delightful items, including toys, school supplies, and personal care items. These thoughtful contributions are set to bring joy to children in over 100 countries, offering comfort and happiness to those facing challenges such as war, poverty, disease, and disaster.

Though drop-off locations have closed, the spirit of giving continues as there's still an opportunity to make a difference. Interested individuals can contribute to the cause by packing a gift-filled shoebox online. This online option ensures that these special gifts reach even the most remote and challenging areas in the world.

Operation Christmas Child not only delivers tangible expressions of love but also serves as a platform to share the message of the Gospel, bringing hope to children in need. For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, Samaritan's Purse provides a user-friendly platform at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline. Here, participants can select gifts tailored to a child's specific age and gender, personalizing the virtual shoebox with a photo and a heartfelt note of encouragement.

As the holiday season approaches, Operation Christmas Child stands as a beacon of compassion, showcasing the power of collective kindness to make a positive impact on the lives of children worldwide. For more information on how to be a part of this meaningful endeavor, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.