Each year around Christmas time battalions of boxes fly all over the world, providing children in poverty-stricken areas with a gift for Christmas and a gospel pamphlet. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse that aims to use boxes full of candy, toys and supplies such as toothpaste to bring hope and the gospel message to children in foreign countries.

FC students of all ages have the opportunity to contribute to OCC by packing boxes to be sent overseas. Boxes are due in the office by Nov. 8.

Bible teacher Robert Foshee encourages his students to help spread the gospel by participating in OCC.

“It’s a great way to reach people around the world,” Foshee said. “I like this project a lot, because not only does it give kids Christmas presents, but it also presents the gospel. This ministry shares the gospel and partners with local pastors in support of the families and kids who receive the gifts.”

Senior Jenna Orcutt appreciates the joy that OCC can bring to children.

“I am really excited about it,” Orcutt said. “It really gives hope to kids who don’t normally get Christmas presents. We can come together and give them things that they will really enjoy. They can open something that’s just theirs for the first time. It’s a great time of year to give to people who don’t have a lot.”

Junior Kyle Hudecek was not sure if he would be able to participate, but agreed that OCC is a valuable ministry.

“I don’t know if I can do Operation Christmas Child right now,” Hudecek said. “Hopefully I can, though, because I think it gives children overseas hope, and that is what they need. I remember last year a speaker who received a gift and it gave her hope that life could be better.”

According to freshman Dawson Oquist, OCC provides a connection that can show God’s love.

“I have been doing Operation Christmas Child since I was a kid,” Oquist said. “I think it is a great opportunity to serve those that aren’t in our midst. It’s a great way to spread the love of Christ.”

A wide variety of things, from combs to calculators to kazoos, can be packed in a box, but OCC does have a list of recommended and restricted items. Each box should have a label specifying the age group and gender of the recipient.

Boxes may be picked up from the high school office, or students may use their own cardboard or plastic boxes. A seven dollar shipping fee is necessary when dropping off a box.

For more information, visit the OCC website or call 1800.353.5949.

For more news, read the Oct. 24 article, BRIEF: KFSN-Fresno Channel 30 to cover campus activities.