There’s something truly special about filling a shoebox with love — a small act of kindness that can travel thousands of miles and brighten a child’s world. This November, Stockton residents will once again have the chance to do just that as Operation Christmas Child opens its local drop-off location for National Collection Week, November 17–24.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child — a project of Samaritan’s Purse — has been collecting and delivering gift-filled shoeboxes to children living through war, poverty, disease, and natural disasters. Each shoebox is a heartfelt message that says, “You are loved and not forgotten.”
Packing a shoebox is simple — and it’s a wonderful activity for individuals, families, or community groups. From dolls and toy cars to crayons, notebooks, and toothbrushes, each small gift helps share joy and hope with children around the world.
“This isn’t just about giving gifts,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “These shoeboxes open the door for us to share the true meaning of Christmas — love, hope, and faith.”
Participants can even donate $10 online through the “Follow Your Box” feature to get a special tracking label, allowing them to see where their shoebox ends up — sometimes in faraway places where joy is needed most.
Stockton Drop-Off Location
The Bridge of Stockton
703 E. Swain Road, Stockton, CA 95207
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Mon, Nov. 17: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Tue, Nov. 18: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Wed, Nov. 19: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Thu, Nov. 20: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Fri, Nov. 21: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Sat, Nov. 22: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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Sun, Nov. 23: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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Mon, Nov. 24: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
If you’re not in the Stockton area, don’t worry — there are nearly 5,000 drop-off locations opening across the country. You can find one near you using the online lookup tool on the Operation Christmas Child website (searchable by city or ZIP code).
Every shoebox tells a story of kindness — and together, we can help write millions more this season.
To learn how to pack a shoebox or find a nearby drop-off location, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.