OXFORD HILLS — It’s November again, and time for the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child National Collection Week, November 14-21. All over the United States Drop-Off Stations are being set up, ready for donors to bring in their packed Shoebox Gifts.

There is still time to fill shoeboxes. You may use a box that once actually held shoes, purchase a plastic box and lid, or check with your local Drop Point to arrange pick up of pre-printed shoebox(es). Labels are available to designate your box(es) for a girl or a boy, and their approximate age- (2-4, 5-9, or 10-13). Appropriate items for that child should include: a ‘WOW’ gift- (a stuffy, dolly/fashion doll, truck, art supplies, a soccer ball with a pump, shoes…); hygiene items (a toothbrush, comb, brush…); pens, pencils, crayons, and/or other school supplies; clothes… Please: no food, liquids, breakables, toothpaste, or any war-related toys.

Speaking of labels: a $10 donation to offset shipping is requested by Samaritan’s Purse. There is also a ‘Follow Your Box’ option available at no extra charge, so you can know where in the world your box(es) went! In New England alone, there are dozens of Drop-Off Stations. In the Norway/Paris/Oxford area, the nearest location (with times) is:

West Paris Baptist Church
15 Church Street, West Paris
Mon, Nov. 14: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Tue, Nov. 15: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Wed, Nov. 16: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Thu, Nov. 17: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fri, Nov. 18: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Sat, Nov. 19: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sun, Nov. 20: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mon, Nov. 21: 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

It’s important to be sure your boxes are on time, to allow them to reach the next step in processing, and eventually get to a child in need of God’s love. Times vary by Drop Off location. so for other areas, or information about the Build a Box Online option, go to https://samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/, and the “Pack a Shoebox” drop-down menu will give you all the information you need for Shoebox success.

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