Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, collected 11,330,126 gift-filled shoeboxes globally in 2023—425,209 of these were packed in Canada.
Each shoebox gift is a tangible express of God’s love and shares the true meaning of Christmas with children, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease, and disaster.
In Delta, there was 578 boxes packed by residents which marked a 51 per cent increase over the 382 packed in 2022.
In total, B.C. residents packed 53,945 shoeboxes in 2023 – a three per cent over 2022’s 52,498.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiastic participation of Canadians in Operation Christmas Child,” said Kendra Shields, Operation Christmas Child’s Canadian director. “It is very encouraging to know that so many generous people want to give hope and joy to children in need around the world.”
Samaritan’s Purse is celebrating the overwhelming generosity of volunteers who packed these shoebox gifts for boys and girls around the world. Each shoebox—filled with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items—will bring joy to children in need.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.
Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at SamaritansPurse.ca/OCC or by calling 1-800-303-1269.
