Holiday Shoeboxes Lift Up Less Fortunate

A holiday shoebox operation is teaching children in McDonald County how to give to others.

Local folks believe that strong bridges can be built to those less fortunate, just through a shoebox.

The local Samaritan’s Purse shoebox operation — Operation Christmas Child — is being spearheaded by Grace Life Church’s children’s ministry. Those who choose to become involved can fill a shoebox with items for less fortunate children, then drop off the shoebox at a collection point. The shoeboxes are then sent to less fortunate children across the globe, just in time for the holidays.

McDonald County neighbors can pick up a plastic shoebox at the Rags to Riches Flea Market on Main Street in Anderson, or submit their own shoebox.

A handout sheet with specifics accompanies the empty shoebox, which points out that senders can fill each shoebox with fun toys, school supplies and other helpful items.

Rags to Riches Flea

Market owner Alecia Rickett said senders may also pray for the recipient, as well as fill out a personal note and a photo for him or her.

Senders also may track their shoebox to know who received it, she said.

In addition, officials ask each sender to consider making a $9 donation for shipping the shoebox.

This is the first year for Rickett to be involved. Her church’s children’s ministry is leading the effort and Rickett wanted to be a pick-up and drop-off point for the ministry.

“We want to teach the younger ones how to give,” she said.

She hopes to have 50 shoeboxes filled and returned to her shop.

Shoeboxes can be picked up at any time and returned Nov. 13 through Nov. 20.

For additional information, visit www.samaritanpurse.org/occ or call Rags to Riches Flea Market at(417) 845-7383.