Beech Tree News Network

Dear Editor,

I am writing to thank Butler County residents for sharing the true meaning of Christmas with children around the world. The generosity of Butler County and the Bowling Green Area Team enabled us to exceed our goal by collecting 16,514 gift-filled shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, a project of international Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse. United States and international efforts, including Germany, Australia, Canada, U.K., and other sending countries, resulted in shoebox gifts for another 10.5 million children around the world.

Through shoeboxes – packed with fun toys, school supplies and hygiene items – Butler County volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Thanks to the generosity of donors, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 168 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 160 countries and territories since 1993.

It’s not too late for people to make a difference. Though Butler County drop-off locations are closed until November 16-23, 2020, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a personalized shoebox gift online at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline. Participants can also challenge others to pack boxes online with them or use a shoebox gift card to share the opportunity with friends and family. Information about year-round volunteer opportunities can also be found on the website or by calling Debbie Young, Area Coordinator at (270) 526-1045.

Thank you again to everyone who participated in this global project – many who do so year after year. These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

Sincerely,

Ann Givens

Project Leader

Operation Christmas Child

Butler County

270-526-6913 phone

270-526-5481 cell

Samaritanspurse.org/occnewsroom