Spreading Joy Across the Globe
Operation Christmas Child (OCC)
Join us in making a difference by participating in the Operation Christmas Child initiative, where every shoebox gift brings hope and happiness to children worldwide.
OCC at Waterville Baptist Church
Operation Christmas Child is a global outreach program that aims to deliver gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world. Our mission is to demonstrate God’s love tangibly and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Through the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of donors, we strive to bring joy and hope to children in over 100 countries.
We are proud to serve as an official drop-off location for Operation Christmas Child. We collect shoeboxes year-round, with our national collection week taking place each November. During this time, we welcome individuals and groups from our community to drop off their packed shoeboxes.
Volunteers are always needed—especially during collection week—to help receive, sort, and pray over the boxes. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to serve, we’d love to have you join us! Click HERE to contact us.
Our Commitment to Service
How We Support Operation Christmas Child
Shoebox Collection
As an official drop-off site, Waterville Baptist Church collects shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items, ensuring they reach children in need.
Volunteer Opportunities
Join our team of dedicated volunteers who help sort, pack, and prepare shoeboxes for shipment, making a direct impact on children’s lives.
Community Engagement
We host events and workshops to educate and involve the community in the mission of Operation Christmas Child, fostering a spirit of giving and compassion.
Prayer Support
We encourage prayer for the children receiving the shoeboxes, the volunteers, and the success of the mission, believing in the power of prayer to transform lives.
Upcoming OCC Events
Collection Week Schedule
During National Collection Week, Samaritan’s Purse will collect the gift-filled shoeboxes at nearly 5,000 drop-off locations in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Volunteer for Collection week at Waterville Baptist or learn how to pack a shoebox, view gift suggestions, and Follow Your Box at samaritanspurse.org/occ.
| November 17-21 (Mon-Fri) | 10:30AM-1:30PM |
| November 19 (Wed) | 10:30AM-1:30PM & 5:30PM-7PM |
| November 22 (Sat) | 10:30AM-12:30PM |
| November 23 (Sun) | 3:00PM-7:00PM |
| November 24 (Mon) | 8:00AM-11:00AM |
A shoebox gift is often a child’s first present and shares God’s love along with the Good News of Jesus Christ. To make it meaningful, ensure it is:
- FUN – Include a “wow” item and quality toys.
- FULL – Pack it with school supplies and personal care items.
- PERSONALIZED – Pray over it and add a note and photo, which children treasure most.
Click HERE to access details about what goes in a shoebox, recommendations for boys and girls, and/or download gift suggestions HERE.
Needs for November
We are nearing the end of our collection for 2025. Without your support and prayers, this would not be possible.
The following personal care and school supply items are needed:
- Combs/brush
- Toothbrush & Washcloth
- Fun adhesive bandages
- Eating utensils
- Pencils, sharpeners, & erasers
- Pens, crayons, or markers
- Notebooks or index cards
- Scissors, rulers, or glue sticks
Each box requires $10 shipping fee. If you would like to donate, please contact Brandi High or Kathy Moore, using this LINK.
It’s never too early to start! Shop, pack, and pray for shoebox gifts all year long. Make each box FUN (wow toy), FULL (school supplies & care items), and PERSONALIZED (note & photo). Every gift shares God’s love and the Good News of Jesus Christ with children worldwide.
Click HERE for the year-round packing ideas.
Interested in learning more about OCC? Click HERE for more in-depth information, such as the OCC’s:
- Impact
- Purpose
- Process
- Global Reach
Join Our Mission with Operation Christmas Child
Be a part of something bigger this holiday season by supporting Operation Christmas Child. Whether you donate a shoebox filled with gifts, volunteer your time, or help us spread the word, your involvement can make a world of difference for children in need. Join us at Waterville Baptist Church, your local drop-off site, and help bring joy to children around the globe.