Shoe box collection for Operation Christmas Child Okotoks starts today.

Every year the program from Samaritan's Purse collects donations of packed up shoe boxes from local families for children in need around the world.

This year the boxes will be delivered to children in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Nicaragua, Chile, Africa, and Ukraine.

Janet Caron, Okotoks Coordinator for Operation Christmas Child says each shoe box makes a huge impact.

"Packing shoe boxes really transforms lives, they're delivered to children living in war, poverty and disaster areas. If you think about it each box is just such a powerful expression of God's love, hope and joy. It also opens the door for us to work with leaders in these countries to address needs such as safe water, and improved farming."

Caron shares along with gifts and toiletries, the children also receive an opportunity to learn about God.

She adds there are a few items children love receiving in the gift boxes.

"Some ideas for these boxes would be things like; dolls, soccer balls, stuffed animals, hair clips, socks, musical instruments, and school supplies are really nice items to have, tooth brushes, bar soaps, combs, kids love the personal notes that people can include in their boxes."

Food, candy, toothpaste, used items, and war and violence related toys are discouraged.

Shoe box collection takes place at the Okotoks Evangelical Church on Thursday from 4-8 p.m., Friday from 1-4 p.m., and Saturday from 10-4.

Boxes will also be accepted after collection week until Dec. 8, at the Samaritan's Purse Calgary location.

Caron shares if residents cannot make it to the church to drop off their boxes, she would gladly pick them up, and encourages residents to call her at 403-816-9306.

There is also a way to pack a shoe box online here.

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