TIMMINS - The chance to supply some Christmas cheer for children worldwide is here again.
The 31st annual Operation Christmas Child campaign is underway and there are drop-off locations across Timmins.
For the program, shoeboxes are packed with items for children, with this year’s boxes heading to children in Africa, South America, Ukraine and the Philippines.
To participate, decide who you want to pack a box for. The options are a boy or girl who is either two to four years old, five to nine years, or 10 to 14. Then, fill the shoebox with gifts such as toys, hygiene items or school supplies. You can also include a personal note or photo.
The boxes are meant to contain a “wow” item, like a doll or ball with a pump, personal care items like nail clippers, combs, or eating utensils, and things like school supplies, crafts, and activities. A complete list is available online.
Items to not include are toothpaste, used or damaged items, candy, gum, war-related items, seeds, food, liquid or lotions, vitamins, medication or anything breakable.
Those shoeboxes can be picked up at:
- Timmins Square - Hallmark Cards
- Timmins Post Office
- Jorie’s Fine Clothing
- Schumacher Post Office
- Porcupine Timber Mart
- South Porcupine Post Office
Once they’re filled, they can be dropped off at:
- Porcupine Post Office
- Timber Mart at 85 Bruce Avenue South Porcupine
A donation of $12 can also be included to help cover the shipping cost. People can also just donate financially by picking up a brochure, which has pre-paid addressed envelopes. Those brochures will be arriving in town next week.
The deadline to drop off a box is Nov. 24.
For more information on the program, call Peggy Bendell at 705-235-5121.
