Operation Christmas Child has impacted over 244 million children by providing them not only a box full gifts but also introducing them to the gospel.

College of the Ozarks will host its annual Operation Christmas Child donation drive, Nov. 16-23. The College will be collecting shoeboxes, filled with gifts, from the community to send across the world.

Samaritan’s Purse began the mission of Operation Christmas Child in 1993. This mission has impacted over 244 million children by providing them not only a box full gifts but also introducing them to the gospel.

Elizabeth Cook, senior early childhood elementary education major, has a heart for the program. When Cook was 15, she became a year-round volunteer for Operation Christmas Child, as a student relations coordinator. With this role, she traveled to high schools, youth groups, and college campuses sharing the impact that Operation Christmas Child makes. Today, she still volunteers year-round, as a community relations team member.

“I love Operation Christmas Child because it is such a wonderful opportunity to spread the gospel through a simple gift,” Cook said. “Each child who receives a shoebox will get a book in their own language, called ‘The Greatest Gift,’ that tells them about Jesus. They are then invited to a 12-week discipleship program called The Greatest Journey. A lot of children who receive boxes end up telling their families about Jesus too, which is so amazing. It is truly a joy to be a part of such an impactful organization to further God's kingdom.”

Lori Simmons, director of special projects and executive assistant to the VP of Christian ministries and student development, organizes the College’s Operation Christmas Child donation drive.

“Operation Christmas Child has always been a special ministry to us at College of the Ozarks, but after traveling to Belize earlier this year and participating in shoebox distributions, it has taken on an entirely new meaning for me,” Simmons said. “I had the privilege of seeing firsthand the joy these gifts bring to children and the incredible ministry that continues long after the shoeboxes are delivered. These boxes are so much more than toys, school supplies, and hygiene items. They are tangible expressions of God’s love and opportunities to introduce children and their families to Jesus. Knowing what happens on the other side of the world makes me even more grateful for the students, faculty, staff, and community members who faithfully support this ministry each year.”

The College’s goal for 2026 is to pack 1,500 shoeboxes.

The Point Lookout drop-off location is in the Christian Ministries Building on the College of the Ozarks campus. Signs will be posted to direct participants to the drop-off.

2026 National Collection Week is Nov. 16-23. Drop off dates and times for the College’s location are as follows:

• Monday, Nov. 16: 3–6 p.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17: 8–11 a.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18: 8–11 a.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 19: 3–6 p.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 21: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 22: 1–4 p.m.
• Monday, Nov. 23: 8–10 a.m.

Anyone who would like to contribute to Operation Christmas Child without leaving home can build a shoebox online at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline.

For media coordination or interview requests, please contact:

Valorie Coleman
Director of Communication & Public Relations
College of the Ozarks

 (417) 365-2727