BLAINE, Maine — Operation Christmas Child will hose a special celebration event on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the CEF Youth Center, 24 Military Rd., in Blaine.
Operation Christmas Child is a division of the Samaritan’s Purse Organization and it is the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind, spreading “good news and great joy” by providing gift-filled shoeboxes to demonstrate God’s love to children in need around the world.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 145 million shoeboxes to children in more than 150 countries and territories.
Several churches in Aroostook County have been involved in this project in the past, and local supporters hope to increase the number of shoeboxes sent from this area in 2017 to reach more children.
The event on the 16th is open to all ages and lunch will be provided free of charge. The program will feature information about Operation Christmas Child, praise and worship music as well as two special speakers:
Cecil Polydore is the northeast regional manager for Operation Christmas Child and will travel from New York for the event. He will share stories of how the shoeboxes are making an impact around the world.
Peter Gorczok, the regional area coordinator for the state of Maine will discuss his recent trip to distribute shoeboxes in Rwanda.
Those attending may take shoeboxes to pack as well as other information about Operation Christmas Child.
For more information, contact Erica McCrum at ejshaw@yahoo.com or at 227-7678.
