Operation Christmas Child 2024 has been underway for about a month, with the local Sobeys handing out over 200 boxes, along with some distributed by Dollarama, the Portage Regional Library, Homestead Co-op, and Solomon's Home Garden Gift.
Carla Hemingway, Community Relations Coordinator for Operation Christmas Child, shares an update.
"So far, from what I can see, we’ve had similar numbers go out as in past years. I’m very excited, along with some new contacts and inquiries. Some shoebox packing parties have already happened at churches and organizations. We’ll be having one at my workplace soon, which I’m very excited about."
She notes that the countries receiving the shoebox gifts for children are mostly the same as previous years.
"The new country this year is Cape Verde. Boxes are going to the Philippines, Ukraine, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, El Salvador, and Costa Rica. If you pack a shoebox online, which we highly encourage, those boxes from Canadians will go to Nicaragua this year."
Hemingway adds that only three weeks remain in this year’s campaign. The collection is being held for the 11th year at the Portage Mall on Wednesday, November 20, Thursday, November 21, and Friday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and on Saturday, November 23, until 2:50 p.m., so they can close early to load the trucks.
“We really encourage high-quality items and for people to fill up their boxes. Include items like dolls, soccer balls with a pump, stuffed animals, harmonicas, recorders, skipping ropes, and hygiene items like soap, a toothbrush, and a facecloth. School supplies like scribblers, pens, a pencil sharpener, erasers, crayons, clothing, socks, shirts, gloves, hats, and other things the kids can put on, like sunglasses, are always popular. A quick reminder: don’t include any liquids, candy, or food. The website is very clear and has answers to common questions if you need any guidance."
Hemingway says they’re still looking for more team members, especially coordinators who would like to help year-round.
“We’re still looking for an area coordinator. We really miss Eileen Warthe this year. I’d like to mention that on December 6, in Calgary, I’ll be visiting the processing centre for the first time. That Friday afternoon, we’ll hold a memorial for Eileen at the centre. I’ll be there with another volunteer from Portage and Eileen’s sister. We’re volunteering our time, thinking of Eileen."
She adds that the cost of items has gone up, and they’re asking for a $12 donation per shoebox this year.
"In the past, it was $10. This covers transportation, training supplies, and literature that goes along with the shoebox. Thank you!"
Dropoff location:
Portage la Prairie Mall
2450 Saskatchewan Ave W
Portage La Prairie, Manitoba R1N 3N8
November 18 - 24, 2024
- Mon. CLOSED
- Tues. CLOSED
- Wed. 10:00am - 5:45pm
- Thur. 10:00am - 5:45pm
- Fri. 10:00am - 5:45pm
- Sat. 10:00am - 3:00pm
- Sun. CLOSED
Online donations:
