I am writing to thank the good folks in the Salisbury area for sharing the true meaning of Christmas with children around the world.

Because of their generosity, we were able to collect 26,136 shoebox gifts for Operation Christmas Child, a project of the international Christian relief organization, Samaritan’s Purse.

Generous donors in our area transformed empty shoeboxes into treasured gifts filled with school supplies, hygiene items and fun toys. These are being delivered right now to children around the world affected by war, disease, disaster, poverty and famine. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received.

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 168 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 160 countries and territories.

It’s not too late for people to make a difference. Though local drop-off locations are closed until November 16 – 23, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a personalized shoebox gift online at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline. Participants can also challenge others to pack shoeboxes online with them or use a shoebox gift card to share the opportunity with friends and family.

Information about year-round volunteer opportunities can also be found by visiting samaritanspurse.org/occ or by calling 704-583-1463.

Thank you again to everyone who participated in this global project and for those who do so year after year.

These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten.

Susan Porter

Statesville