Samaritanís Purse, an international Christian relief and evangelism organization headed by Franklin Graham, sponsors Operation Christmas Child, which delivers gift-filled shoeboxes to more than 113 million children in more than 150 countries. In 2014, Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect enough shoebox gifts to reach another 10 million children. Falcon and area residents can drop off shoeboxes at the following locations: First Baptist Church of Black Forest 10915 Black Forest Rd., Living Word Community Church 532 Colorado Ave, Calhan, Vista Grande 5680 Stetson Hills Blvd.Colorado Springs Christian Schools is inviting the public to share the experience of packing shoebox gifts for needy children around the world. People of all ages are encouraged to come and join the fun! Participants are encouraged to bring shoebox contents: small (new) toys, school supplies, hard candy and hygiene items. Monetary donations to defray the $7/box shipping cost will also be gratefully accepted. The event takes place Saturday, Nov. 8, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Colorado Springs Christian Schools at 4855 Mallow Road in Colorado Springs. For more information about how to participate in Operation Christmas Child, call 719-532-9566 or visit samaritanspurse.org. National Collection Week for gift-filled shoeboxes is Nov. 17 to 24.
