Shoe box charity aims
to aid children

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Star-Bulletin staff

Needy children around the globe are the target of Operation Christmas Child, which aims to collect 8,000 shoe boxes full of gifts in the islands by Nov. 18.

Several island churches and schools are participating in the annual collection, which will benefit youngsters in 100 countries including the United States. Other groups, families and individuals may join in the effort.

Where to go Gifts must be delivered to a Matson container pickup site, which will be open at Joy of Christ Lutheran Church, 784 Kamehameha Highway, Pearl City, at the following times: >> Nov. 12 to 16: 3 to 6:30 p.m. >> Nov. 17: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. >> Nov. 18: 1 to 6:30 p.m.

Each shoe box should be packed with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, T-shirts and socks. Each box should contain a taped label that indicates whether it is for a boy or girl and the age category: 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14. Givers may include personal photos and notes. The box and lid should be gift-wrapped separately so it can be opened for inspection, and should be held shut with rubber bands.

Samaritan's Purse, an international Christian relief organization, has sponsored the program since 1993.

It requests that a $5 check to pay shipping costs be inserted in each box.

Organizations packing multiple shoe boxes and individuals who wish to participate may get further information by calling toll-free 1-877-495-8243.

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