TL;DR:
Our neighbors at Columbia Community Bible Church (420 NE Marine Drive) are inviting the broader East Columbia community to join them in collecting small gifts for children in need through the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox program. Drop-off times: Sundays 10 AM–12:30 PM or Tuesdays 2–3:30 PM. Boxes will be packed on Sunday, November 16.

What’s Happening

Each year, the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child project sends shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items to children around the world who might not otherwise receive a gift during the holidays. This simple act of kindness can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.

Columbia Community Bible Church—a valued part of our East Columbia neighborhood and a generous host for some of our ECNA meetings—is inviting the community to take part in this year’s effort. Neighbors are encouraged to drop off new, small gifts that can fit inside a standard shoebox—one for either a boy or a girl aged 5–9. Suggested items include small toys, school supplies, and hygiene items like soap, toothbrushes, gloves, and scarves.

All items will be gathered and packed on Sunday, November 16 from 10 AM to 12:30 PM before being shipped to children in need around the world. Community members are warmly welcome to stop by during that time, or to attend the church’s “Sweet Hour of Prayer” (10–11 AM) or worship service (11 AM–12:30 PM).

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How to Participate

Drop-off times:
• Sundays: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Tuesdays: 2:00 – 3:30 PM
A blue collection tub is located just inside the front doors of the church at 420 NE Marine Drive, Portland.

Optional online shopping: Prefer to order online? Visit Amazon.com and search “Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Children’s Shoebox” to find gift ideas for kids aged 5–9. Choose delivery options early to ensure your items arrive in time.

Why It Matters

This community effort is a reminder that generosity transcends boundaries. By filling shoeboxes with small gifts and big care, we can bring joy to children around the world—and strengthen the bonds right here in East Columbia. Whether you’re a church member, a neighbor, or simply someone who wants to help, your participation is welcome and appreciated.

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Questions?
Reach out to Rev. Steven Boyle at s.sboyle91@gmail.com or by phone at 503-292-1081.
Learn more about the global project at samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/.

Let’s come together to share a little kindness this holiday season—one shoebox at a time.