Don't forget this week we are doing a service project for BREAD INC. If you can please bring in some grocery food items to share with those in need. If you are not able to bring in food, but would like to donate to the organization they are located at 161 W. Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28052 and their phone # is 704-854-9221.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
We will be collecting items for Operation Christmas Child this week and putting together the boxes. We'll provide the boxes and all we ask is that you provide the things to put inside!
There are a few ways you can participate:
1- you can bring your items Friday and fill a box on your own
OR
2- you can partner up with 1-2 other moms and fill a box together
OR
3- you can bring a few of the items below that can be used for filler for boxes
OR
4- you can pray for the boxes and the children who will be receiving the boxes
As always- participation is NOT required in our community impact projects. We do ask, though, that if you're not able to participate this time around that you do spend some time in prayer for the project. (please do this even if you do participate) We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season that sometimes we forget the true meaning of what it's all about- celebrating Christ's birth. This outreach is an amazing testimony to children all over the world and shows them that there are people that care about them and ultimately that Christ loves and cares for them. Each box that's sent out gets a booklet in it that shares the gospel with the children in their native language. They are not just given a material gift, but they're given a eternal gift as well- the opportunity to learn and grow in Christ. So please- as you're purchasing your items for the box, keep in mind the children that will be receiving it and how this small gesture will impact their lives for eternity.
Steps in filling a box- Choose a gender and age group.
They are split in the following ways:
Boy- 2-4, 5-9, 10-14
Girl- 2-4, 5-9, 10-14
Gift Ideas:
TOYS
small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch®, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
HYGIENE ITEMS
toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.
OTHER
Hard candy and lollipops (please double bag all candy), mints, gum, T-shirts, socks, ball caps; sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)
A PERSONAL NOTE
In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. (If you include your name and address, the child may write back.)
Do Not Include:
Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snowglobes or glass containers; aerosol cans
