Operation Christmas Child

Calvary Baptist Church has been involved with Operation Christmas Child for over two decades, being part of sharing the gospel with millions of children around the world. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is one of many components of Samaritan’s Purse, an international ministry led by Franklin Graham.

Preparation for the Shoebox Packing Parties occurs throughout the year. Donations of new or “like-new” stuffed animals, crayons, pencils, toothbrushes, washcloths, soap, other hygiene items, toys, handmade items, and empty shoeboxes are always needed and appreciated. There is a collection box in the Lobby near the main level Kitchen in which you can place your donations.

Individuals and families are encouraged to pack shoebox gifts on their own as well as join with others in participating in a Packing Party. Learn more about How to Pack a Shoebox on Samaritan’s Purse website.

Learn more about Operation Christmas Child at Calvary by clicking on the plus signs below.

OCC Sale

The OCC Sale is an annual fundraising event to raise money for the cost of shipping the shoeboxes. Items available in the sale range are typically what would be found in a garage sale, things like dishes, household items, furniture, toys, books, etc. In addition, the Sale includes growing plants ready to be transplanted into gardens and yards. The 2025 OCC Sale was held on May 15-17, 2025, and raised almost $7,000.

Shoebox Packing Party

Shoebox Packing Parties for 2025 will be held by appointment for groups and individuals on Monday, November 10, through Friday, November 14, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm each day, and on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The goal is to pack 7,500 shoebox gifts during the week. 

Besides placing items in shoeboxes, help during Packing Parties includes folding shoeboxes, refilling packing lines, praying, inspecting the boxes, and placing filled shoeboxes into shipping cartons.

National Collection Week

National Collection Week for 2025 is November 17 through November 24, 2025. Each year, Calvary serves as a drop off location for churches, community groups and families to drop off their boxes. This gives the church an opportunity to share the joy of all the boxes that have been collected and to help get them on their way.

The Drop-off Dates and Times for 2025 at Calvary are as follows;

  • Monday, November 17, 2025: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Tuesday, November 18, 2025: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Wednesday, November 19, 2025: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Thursday, November 20, 2025: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday, November 21, 2025: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday, November 22, 2025: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Sunday, November 23, 2025: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Monday, November 24, 2025: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM