FACS Students, grades Pre-K - 12, participate in Operation Christmas Child, an annual project through Samaritan's Purse, and its mission to show God's love in a tangible way to children in need all over the world. What do you plan to put in your Operation Christmas Child shoebox?
"Boys and girls around the world need to have the opportunity to experience joy and hear the Gospel message," Bryan Sanders, Head of School, shares. "Operation Christmas Child does just this - through the collection of shoeboxes filled with gifts from local churches all over the United States of America. Our school does an outstanding job of involving students in an event that is much bigger than themselves. We are excited to be part of this endeavor to go into all the world sharing the good news about Jesus."
FACS students and families have participated in this program for many years, packing thousands of boxes that have gone to children all over the world. Participation in this fun and life-giving event is easy! We cannot wait to see how many boxes students will pack this year.
Important facts and dates to remember
Shoebox Collection Week is November 1-14.
Students can begin bringing boxes in as early as October 31.
Elementary students will turn in filled shoeboxes to their homeroom teachers at the beginning of the school day.
Secondary students will turn in their filled shoeboxes at a location designated by the Student Government Association.
There will be a special dedication ceremony for all students, grades PreK-12, in the main sanctuary on Tuesday, November 15.
How to pack your shoebox
Assemble. Start by assembling your take-home box that students received during Chapel services (or grab a shoebox-sized box on your own).
Personalize. Decide whether you will pack a box for a girl or boy. Then select your age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. This is an important step because your gifts may change based on these details.
Pack. Now it's time to fill your box with gifts! Choose a medium-large "wow" item. Check out these great gift suggestions, and be sure not to include any of the "do not include" items such as toy guns, knives, chocolate or toothpaste.
Pray. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift. You can also include a personal note and photo.
Return. Return your packed shoebox to FACS by November 14, 2022.
How to tag your shoebox
Once your shoebox is filled with gifts, you must label it according to the following:
Attach a tag that states whether your gift is for a boy or girl.
(optional) Purchase your pre-paid shipping label to track your package.
Wrap a rubber band around your box to keep it closed. Do NOT tape your box closed.
Shoebox collection locations
Students are encouraged to start bringing in packed boxes, beginning October 31, to the following locations:
High School: Room 267 before school
Junior High: 8636 Building lobby
Elementary: Your classroom
All-school blessing ceremony planned
On November 15, during Chapel service, students will come back together to bless and pray for the children who will receive their gifts this Christmas season.
Who to contact
This is a school-wide event, open for every student in grades PreK-12, led by FACS Student Government Association and the Parent-Teacher Fellowship.
For elementary students, Melissa Jadhav, is the main point of contact at mjadhav@facsmemphis.org.
For secondary students, Carolyn Priest, SGA Sponsor, is the main point of contact at cpriest@facsmemphis.org.
Want to learn more about the global impact of Operation Christmas Child? Read their stories.