Volunteers, churches, and community groups from across North Central Louisiana are invited to kick off the 2026 Operation Christmas Child shoebox season during a regional event August 29 at First Baptist Church in Minden.
The North Central Louisiana Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Kickoff will be held from 9:30 AM until noon and is designed to inspire, equip, and encourage participants as they prepare shoebox gifts for children around the world.
The event will feature information on packing shoeboxes, updates on how the gifts are distributed internationally, and details about The Greatest Journey, the discipleship program offered to children who receive Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes. Attendees will also have an opportunity to view exhibits highlighting the ministry and learn more about sharing its mission with churches and community organizations.
Organizers said the kickoff is an opportunity for both new and returning volunteers to connect with the local Operation Christmas Child area team while preparing for the annual collection season.
“We hope we can do something great to reach more people to pack shoeboxes to share God’s love with children,” North Central Louisiana Area Coordinator Brenda Teal said.
The North Central Louisiana Operation Christmas Child area serves six parishes: Webster, Lincoln, Union, Bienville, Jackson, and Claiborne.
Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, encourages individuals, families, churches, and civic organizations to fill shoeboxes with school supplies, hygiene items, toys, and other gifts. The shoeboxes are distributed to children in countries around the world and are accompanied by an opportunity to participate in The Greatest Journey, a Bible-based discipleship program.
The August 29 kickoff is open to anyone interested in learning more about the ministry or participating in this year’s shoebox effort. Advance registration is requested through an online registration form.
