‘Operation Christmas Child’ a miracle

Mission impossible?

It might have seemed that way when folks behind “Operation Christmas Child” on Kauai set a goal earlier this year of collecting 2,000 shoeboxes for the program that benefits children overseas.

After all, the previous high was 750 boxes filled with everything from toys, school supplies and hygiene items. The chances of topping that didn’t seem overly bright, considering the sluggish economy and a reduction in visitors coming to The Garden Isle. People are not only busy trying to keep up with bills and expenses, many are falling behind. Giving is not usually high on the list of those struggling with the economy — however, based on the numbers, it is here.

They didn’t just top 750 shoeboxes. They blew that figure right out of the water. When it was said and done and they were counting them up at Breath of Life church, more than 2,000 shoeboxes had been contributed to Operation Christmas Children.

Wow.

That is nothing short of amazing and a tribute to this island’s generosity and heart to pitch in where it’s needed. Kauai continues to make a huge difference in the lives of those thousands of miles away. What many of us take for granted, others consider a luxury.

These boxes, by the way, will go where they will be treasured, to children in the Philippines, Nepal, Indonesia and the Ukraine. These are children who have little, so these simple gifts will bring joy into their lives. Most of them, otherwise, would have received nothing this holiday season.

Samaritan’s Purse International, by the way, works with local churches and ministry partners to deliver the gifts. The program has benefited more than 100 million boys and girls in more than 130 countries.

Here’s a shout out to the organizers of Operation Christmas Children, as well as all those who took their time and spent their money for children. You made the impossible seem like a holiday miracle. And we love holiday miracles.