Christmas is still 5 months away however it will take that long to try and reach this year’s goal of 3,000 shoeboxes bought, filled, and shipped. Eastside Baptist Church in Marianna took on local management of Samaritan’s Purse, “Operation Christmas Child” about a decade ago. This year would be a record if they are able to collect the goal. They have a core group of volunteers. They started collecting as soon as they were finished with 2018 boxes. They are taking donations and volunteers to help fill the boxes. Each box costs $9 to ship. Each box has a few hygiene items, a stuffed loveable animal, school supplies, socks, and a toy. The boxes are for ages ranging from 2 to 14 years old.
The packers meet on Thursdays from 10am to 2pm. For more information please call the church at 850-536-2004.
