Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Gift program available locally

There are local collectors for the Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Gift program for children in need around the world.

Under the program an ordinary shoe box can be filled with toys and other presents and a donation for the distribution costs.

Instructions on filling such a box are as follows:

1. Use a shoe box (standard size), wrap the box - lid separately.

2. Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or girl and the age category 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14, label the box boy/girl and age and tape it to the box.

3. Fill the box with gifts:

Toys: small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes - No war related toys, snakes, play money or glass items.

School Supplies: pens, pencils/ sharpeners, crayons/markers, stamp and ink supplies, writing pads, solar calculators.

Hygiene items: toothbrush/toothpaste, soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, shampoo - No liquids, glass containers.

Other: hard candy/lollipops, gum, socks, t-shirts, ball caps, sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, flashlight/batteries - No chocolate or food items.

Personal note: In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or family - Do not send money to child.

Include a donation: Please donate $7 for each shoe box prepared to help cover shipping and project costs, place in box and rubber band.

4. Drop off: Greencastle Area - Antrim Brethren in Christ Church, 24 East Kauffman Road, Greencastle; Hours: Nov. 12 through 16 - 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., Nov. 17 and 18 - 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.

For information, call Peggy DeWire at 717-597-4629 or contact Samaritan's Purse at 1-800- 353-5949 or visit www.samaritanspurse. org/occ for a drop off location.