MARION — Area volunteers are celebrating the collection of hundreds of gift-filled shoeboxes that will send a message of joy to children around the world through Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse.

While the local collection site here at Christ Fellowship Bible Church has closed for this year, there is still time to share hope and love with children overseas by packing a gift-filled shoebox online.

Shoeboxes built online go to some of the hardest-to-reach areas in the world. Simply browse samaritanspurse.org/buildonline to select gifts matched to a child’s specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement.

The global Christmas project will deliver these gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 100 countries, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. Each shoebox is an opportunity to share the message of the Gospel and bring hope to children in need around the world.

For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.