Operation Christmas Child program presentation set Oct. 11

The Operation Christmas Child shoebox program will be the focus of a presentation at 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11, at New Covenant Presbyterian Church in Lewes. The speaker will be a young man from Rwanda who received his first box when he had been recently orphaned and was a terrified child.

Alex Nsengemina lost his mother to HIV/AIDS and then watched the murders of his uncle and grandmother during the Rwandan genocide - all before he was 10 years old. He and his siblings ran for their lives, finally finding refuge at an orphanage. There he received his first shoebox, and now as an adult he brings hope to countless orphans in need of a reminder that they are not forgotten. He will remind those who attend that every gift-filled shoebox is a powerful tool to bring hope to a needy child.

Worldwide last year, 10.5 million shoeboxes were sent out, making Operation Christmas Child the largest children’s ministry organization on the globe. The Mid-Atlantic region is responsible for sending more than a million boxes abroad each year.

Those who want to help may take an average-size cardboard shoebox, and wrap the box and lid separately. Boxes should be prepared for a boy or a girl and an age category from 2 to 4, 5 to 9, or 10 to 14. One quality "wow” toy such as a doll, soccer ball with pump or stuffed animal should be included. Then other items may be added such as toys, hygiene items and school supplies. Those who prepare a box are asked to pray for the child who will receive it, and personalize it if they like by adding a personal note or Christmas card. To defray shipping costs, a donation of $7 is requested. The $7 may be placed in the box or to donate online, go to www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/follow-your-box/. Box deliveries may be tracked so the giver can see where it goes.

All boxes must be delivered to New Covenant by Sunday, Nov. 15. This makes a wonderful civic group, neighborhood or church-wide project. See how many boxes a group can fill. For more information, stop by New Covenant Presbyterian Church just off Kings Highway at 3072 Savannah East Drive, Lewes or call 302-644-6800. For more information, go to www.ncpchurch.com.