Nancy Taylor: Greene Publishing, Inc.
Operation Christmas Child has issued new guidelines for the 2017 shoeboxes. The changes pertain to items that can no longer be included. Here is a list of what to/and not to include.
Start with a medium to large item that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Items that can still be included are: soccer balls with a pump, stuffed animals, toys (puppets, trucks, etc.), dolls (baby, Barbie, etc.), musical instruments, outfits and shoes.
Toys that are still permitted include items that children will immediately embrace such as toy cars, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls, toys that light up and make noise (with extra batteries), etc.
School supplies, such as: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc. are also great additions to the shoeboxes.
Accessories like t-shirts, socks, hats, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc. also make great gifts.
Handmade crafts you make can add a personal touch to your gift. Ideas for these crafts include items such as hair bows, headbands, finger puppets, and friendship bracelets.
Keep in mind that only non-liquid hygiene items like: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc. may be included.
Starting in 2017, no type of candy can be included in shoebox gifts. Toothpaste can no longer be included in shoebox gifts either, but a child’s oral hygiene can still be improved with regular use of a toothbrush alone.
Other items that cannot be included are: used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; or aerosol cans.
Operation Christmas Child encourages individuals to include a personal note in your box. With the note to the child, include a photo of yourself, your family, or group. If you include your name and an address, the child may be able to write back.