These gifts often serve as the first gift a child will receive in their lifetime.

College of the Ozarks is continuing the annual tradition of collecting boxes for Operation Christmas Child by hosting a drop-off for the community from Nov. 17 - 24. Members of the local community can bring their packed shoe boxes to College of the Ozarks and drop them off in the Christian Ministries Building.

The College of the Ozarks Christian Ministries Department partnered with Samaritan’s Purse to plan and orchestrate the Operation Christmas Child events. The Operation Christmas Child project collects shoeboxes — filled with fun toys, school supplies, and hygiene items — and delivers them to children in need around the world, demonstrating God’s love in a tangible way. Since 1993, more than 232 million children in more than 170 countries and territories have received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox.

Last year, College of the Ozarks collected 1,543 shoeboxes.

Last year, College of the Ozarks collected 1,543 shoeboxes. These gifts often serve as the first gift a child will receive in their lifetime.

“At College of the Ozarks, we love Operation Christmas Child,” said Lori Simmons, community service coordinator at College of the Ozarks. “It is a beautiful opportunity to share the love of Jesus with children in need around the world. I am grateful for how our whole campus rallies to support OCC.”

The Point Lookout drop-off location is in the Christian Ministries Building on the College of the Ozarks campus. Signs will be posted to direct participants to the drop-off.

The Operation Christmas Child drop-off locations will be accepting shoeboxes on the following dates:

• Monday, Nov. 17, 3-6 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 18, 8-11 a.m.
• Wednesday, Nov.19, 8-11 a.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 20, 3-6 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 21, 8-11 a.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 22, 10-1 p.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 23, 1-4 p.m.
• Monday, Nov. 24, 8-10 a.m.

Anyone who would like to contribute to Operation Christmas Child without leaving home can build a shoebox online at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline.

For additional information, contact Public Relations Director Valorie Coleman at (417) 690-2212.