By: Helping Hands TV
“Operation Christmas Child is a really tangible, hands-on way that Australians can show love to kids in need around the world,” says Leanne Palmer from Samaritan’s Purse.
At a Sydney warehouse, volunteers sort, pack and prepare shoebox gifts for children around the world. Through local churches, schools and community groups, this simple act of generosity becomes a global story of faith and kindness.
Watch Part 1: The Heart of the Shoebox Project
From Local Churches to Shoebox Goals
At Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church, volunteers have packed shoeboxes for 25 years. “The goal for today is 1,500 shoeboxes,” says organiser Ila Spence. “Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world, it’s God’s love in action.”
Each box contains a mix of practical and joyful items. “There’s so many people along the way that contribute to a child getting a shoebox, and I love that,” says volunteer Pam Fairhurst.
Lucas and Lincoln, aged 12 and 14, help rally their church groups to make more boxes each year. “We feel really recognised … so we can make more people happy across the world,” they say.
At St Bishoy Coptic Orthodox College, teacher Amal Awadalla reflects: “Our children watched a video about where these boxes go … they were overwhelmed. It’s an international story, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
The Warehouse: From Donation to Dispatch
Inside the Sydney warehouse, one of eight globally, volunteers inspect, scan and pack thousands of boxes for shipment. “It’s not just logistics,” says Leanne Palmer. “These gifts create connection and hope.”
Watch Part 2: Behind the Scenes – The Warehouse Story
Paul Buckley, who takes two weeks off work each year to volunteer, says: “I just love the idea that we’re giving a present … because we love them so much.”
For many, this is love made practical. “When we’re hands-on,” Leanne adds, “this box becomes a symbol of that love.”
Lives Transformed — Then and Now
In the final chapter, we meet Lina and Larsa, sisters who once received shoeboxes as children in war-torn Iraq, now volunteering in Australia. “That was us twenty years ago,” says Lina. “It truly did mean a lot.”
“They may not mean anything to others,” adds Larsa, “but to me, they were a ray of hope.”
Watch Part 3: Full Circle – The Recipients Who Give Back
More than 11 million shoeboxes reach children in about 170 countries each year. “If we pack 5,000 shoeboxes, that’s 5,000 children receiving gifts,” says Dave Wu, Queensland Regional Ministry Leader. “It’s far greater than just giving gifts.”
A Call to Generosity
From church halls and classrooms to warehouse floors and distant villages, Operation Christmas Child shows how small acts of kindness can ripple across the world. Each shoebox carries the same message: You matter. You are loved.
Article supplied with thanks to Helping Hands TV.
About the Author: Helping Hands is an Australian produced TV program that airs on 9GEM, Channel 9 and 9NOW, and showcases people and organisations who make the world a better place.
Feature image: Supplied
