Shoebox Gifts from Rural Oklahoma to the World
Each year, Texas Banner Church of God partners with Samaritan’s Purse for Operation Christmas Child in Wetumka, Oklahoma — packing shoebox gifts filled with toys, school supplies, and the hope of the gospel to send to children around the world.
What Is Operation Christmas Child?
Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse. Churches and individuals pack shoebox gifts with toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. Each box is sent to a child in need, along with a clear presentation of the good news of Jesus Christ.
Our rural church in Hughes County might feel small compared to big-city congregations, but God uses every shoebox — from every small town — to reach children and families all over the world.
Want to learn more about the global ministry of Operation Christmas Child?
Visit the official site:
Samaritan’s Purse – Operation Christmas Child
See the Impact
Watch a short video explaining how a simple shoebox can open doors for the gospel around the world.
How You Can Help This Year
There are several simple ways individuals, families, and groups in Hughes County can participate in Operation Christmas Child:
- Pack a Shoebox: Fill a box with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items (we’ll provide a list).
- Donate Items: Bring toys, crayons, notebooks, soap, washcloths, and other approved items.
- Give Toward Shipping: Help cover the cost of sending shoeboxes overseas.
- Pray: Pray for the children who will receive the shoeboxes and hear the gospel.
- Serve at Collection Time: Help receive, sort, and prepare shoeboxes for transport.
Key Dates & Drop-Off Information
Location: Texas Banner Church of God
3075 Highway 75, Wetumka, OK 74883
Shoebox Collection Season:
(Add your specific dates here — for example, “October–November, with National Collection Week in November.”)
Drop-Off Times:
(Add the specific days/times when people can drop off shoeboxes at the church.)
Volunteer for Operation Christmas Child
If you’d like to help with packing parties, collection days, or logistics, please fill out the form below. This is a great serving opportunity for individuals, families, youth, and small groups.
Why This Matters to Our Church
As a rural church, we feel honored that God lets us participate in something so much bigger than ourselves. Each shoebox becomes a small, tangible way to say to a child, “You are seen, you are loved, and Jesus cares about you.”
Thank you for helping Texas Banner Church of God bless children around the world through Operation Christmas Child.