Hurlburt Field Chapel kicks off Operation Christmas Child

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Naomi Griego
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  More than 75 patrons gathered here Nov. 8 at the base chapel to fill shoeboxes and plastic containers with gifts in support of "Operation Christmas Child."

Operation Christmas Child began in 1993 through Samaritan's Purse, an international relief program. They work with local churches and ministry partners to deliver relief worldwide when needed, according to their website.

"This is the second year the chapel has participated in Operation Christmas Child and it'll continue annually as long as I'm around," said Amy Jamieson, Hurlburt Field Chapel Protestant parish coordinator.

Jamieson came across the program and wanted to get as many participants as possible, so she brought the idea to the Protestant Women of the Parish at the Hurlburt chapel.

"Last year we sent out 115 shoeboxes, and this year our goal is to exceed with 150 boxes," she said.

National Collection Week is from Nov. 18 through 25, and the chapel is extending the opportunity for anyone wanting to donate items from the approved list in support of the program. They are also accepting monetary donations to assist with shipping costs.

The boxes can be tracked to their destination anywhere in the world, according to the Operation Christmas Child pamphlet.

"The shoeboxes spread love and hope throughout the world," Jamieson said.

Empty shoeboxes and a list of acceptable items are available at the chapel.

National Collection Week is from Nov. 18 through 25. Since the inception of the program, more than 100 million children in more than 130 countries have received a shoebox filled with gifts like socks and toys.

For more information contact the base chapel at 884-7795.