Every child deserves to smile during the holiday season, even those facing challenges like poverty, war, disease and natural disasters.
Burnaby and Coquitlam residents are being called upon to bring hope and happiness to kids around the world by filling up shoeboxes full of toys, school supplies and personal hygiene items.
Operation Christmas Child by Samaritan's Purse is hosting its 2024 holiday shoebox collection week starting next Monday, Nov. 18.
The international nonprofit organization, with a $12-per-box support from donors, will be shipping the boxes to kids in areas of great need.
In 2023, more than 425,000 shoeboxes were sent to Ukraine, west and central Africa, and the Philippines.
"Struggling children and families need hope," said Kendra Shields, director of Operation Christmas Child, in a news release.
“Every shoebox gift is an opportunity for a child to learn that he or she matters [...] That’s why I want everyone to help as many children in need as possible by packing shoeboxes.”
Shields said interested participants can also pack boxes online via PackABox.ca.
In-person shoebox drop-off locations in Burnaby and Coquitlam between Nov. 18 and 24 are as follows:
Burnaby
Willingdon Mennonite Brethren Church (4812 Willingdon Ave.)
- Nov. 18, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 19, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Nov. 21, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 22, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Nov. 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Coquitlam
Westwood Community Church (1294 Johnson St.)
- Nov. 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Nov. 19, 5 to 8:30 p.m.
- Nov. 20, 1to 4 p.m.
- Nov. 21, 6 to 9 p.m.
- Nov. 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Nov. 23, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Nov. 24, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
For more information about Operation Christmas Child, you can visit the campaign's website.
