The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. Operation Christmas Child shoebox not only delivers joy for many kids but may be their 1st and only Christmas gift ever. The shoeboxes are filled with toys, school supplies, books, etc. What a great mission project for somebody to do! That is what Matt and Abby Priebe decided 3 years ago to teach their 3 children, Avery 8, Allie 6 and Levi 3, about giving, sharing, and a mission project they could help be a part of.

Matt and Abby planted pumpkins with their children’s help by planting, weeding and picking the pumpkins. Avery, Allie, and Levi shared during church about their project inviting family and friends to be a part of their mission. Pumpkins were brought to church to share with others for a free-will donation or prayers for the project. Their goal was to fill 50 boxes with hygiene items, school supplies, and a “Wow” item (soccer ball, slinky, doll, car, etc.) They ended up filling 60 boxes their 1st year.
Fast forward to year 2 and 3 of planting pumpkins. Their goal has been to fill 100 boxes each year.
The challenge was given and their church and community came through to help children around the world to feel God’s love. Approximately 150 boxes have been filled each year the past two years.
The boxes were filled and delivered to the shipping location. Avery, Allie, and Levi had fun working together through the process of this mission project!
From picking pumpkins, helping friends pick our a special pumpkin, folding boxes, making lists of what to put in the boxes, shopping, counting out the items and packing the boxes.
All the boxes were filled with love for other children. They will remember helping children, just like them through Operation Christmas Child forever! Who knows, someday they may meet someone who has received one of these boxes!