Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes to be distributed at Trunk or Treat this Sunday from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Want to participate in Operation Christmas Child this year? It’s easier than ever – simply pick up a free shoebox at Immanuel Lutheran church during the annual Trunk or Treat event on Sunday, October 22, from 3:00 -5:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome (all ages) and there is no admission fee. Last year an estimated 500 people attended Trunk or Treat, with decorated car trunks and kids “trick-or-treating” from them in this safe environment. Trunk or Treat will also include a variety of games and activities such as a Candyland adventure, a bean bag toss, photo opportunities, and a bounce house. Sweet treats (while supplies last) round out the event. Costumes are optional, but add a fun touch. Also of note: bring a non-perishable food item for our Food Pantry and get a prize!

The shoeboxes are part of Operation Christmas Child, a project that brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations worldwide through gift-filled shoe boxes. These shoeboxes are filled with presents such as school supplies, toothbrushes, combs, personal letters, a toy, and a variety of other small-sized gifts. For many children, their shoebox is the first and only gift they’ll ever receive. The presents and personal letters inside communicate that someone cares for them and gives them an opportunity to experience the love of God.

Once you pick up your free shoebox, fill it with a variety of suggested items – some fun, some practical, some both – and bring it back to Immanuel during “National Collection Week,” November 13- 20. For specific times, please visit Immanuelpalatine.org/operation-christmas-child or call 847-359-1549.

Another way to participate in Operation Christmas Child is to donate something to include in the shoeboxes – nail clippers, crayons, little notebooks, small toys, soap, combs, and more. Items must be new. For a complete list of accepted items, please visit www.immanuelpalatine.org/operation-christmas-child. Donations may be dropped off at Trunk or Treat this Sunday or at Immanuel prior to November 1.

For more information, please contact Trephina Bedell at 847-359-1549 or tbedell@ilcp.org. Immanuel Lutheran Church and School, a fixture in the Palatine community for nearly 150 years, offers a variety of programs and services to the people of Palatine, as well as weekly worship services. More information on Operation Christmas Child may be found at www.samaritanspurse.org.