Volunteer and/or Pack a Shoebox!
VOLUNTEER at the Midland Free Relay Center
You can help spread Good News and great joy when you volunteer during National Collection Week for Operation Christmas Child!
Midland Free has partnered with Operation Christmas Child for over 15 years as a Relay Center drop-off location in Midland County! Shoebox gifts from our Mid-Michigan community are received, counted and packed for shipping then delivered to the next destination…one step closer into the hands of a child in need.
We have the following hours available if you would like to volunteer in the North Atrium during our Relay Center hours. Families and groups are welcome to serve together (recommended minimum age for children is 5 years).
Available shifts:
- Sunday, November 17:
9:00 AM – 1:30 PM - Monday, November 18:
4:00 – 6:00 PM - Tuesday, November 19:
1:00 – 3:00 PM - Wednesday, November 20:
4:00 – 6:00 PM - Thursday, November 21:
4:00 – 6:00 PM - Friday, November 22:
1:00 – 3:30 PM - Saturday, November 23:
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM - Sunday, November 24:
9:00 AM – 1:30 PM - Monday, November 25:
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Pack a Shoebox Gift!
You can bless a child in need and help spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ when you pack a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child!
Visit the lobby table in the Center Lobby from late October to mid-November to pick up a shoebox and instructional pamphlet.
You can also use any standard size shoebox from a store, or build a shoebox online.
Midland Free will be available to receive your Operation Christmas Child gift shoeboxes during the National Collection Week in our “North Pole” atrium from November 17-25, 2024 at the times listed above.
GIFT SUGGESTIONS
Delight a child in need! Start with a “wow” item that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Ideas include: Outfit, shoes, soccer ball (deflated) with pump, stuffed animal or doll.
After you’ve included a “wow” item, fill the box with other special items such as school supplies, toys, accessories (socks, sunglasses, hat, etc.), and non-liquid hygiene items such as bar soap, a comb, washcloth, and toothbrush. You can also include your photo and a personalized note to tell the child you are praying for him or her.
FOLLOW YOUR BOX
Please remember to include a $10 donation for each box to cover the cost of processing, shipping to 100+countries, training local churches, and The Greatest Gift Gospel Booklet that is given to each shoebox recipient in their own language.
You can donate $10 online to learn the destination of your shoebox gift.
You can also build a shoebox online to follow your box and donate toward shipping.
SPREADING GOOD NEWS
In partnership with native churches in a local community, each child who receives a shoebox also hears a Gospel presentation and learns more about Jesus through the booklet, The Greatest Gift.
Then, children are also invited to participate in a 12 week discipleship program called The Greatest Journey through their local church.
Your generous gifts help local churches around the world to reach children, families, and entire communities with the Good News of Jesus Christ!
Thank you for packing shoeboxes!