How to Make an Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Filler Collection Box

Several years ago we wanted to collect items for packing shoeboxes in our AWANA clubs at church.  The kids' church leader wanted to have the kids pack boxes for Operation Christmas Child in their Sunday morning program and needed fillers.  So we took empty copy paper boxes and made giant wrapped shoeboxes as collection receptacles.

I cut a large hole in the top of the lid for the items to be dropped into.  I wrapped the top and bottom
separate just like an OCC shoebox gift is wrapped.

I used packing tape to cover the corners of the boxes and also to cover the wrapping paper on the lid.  This reinforced it so it wouldn't tear.  We have used these same boxes for several years now and they are still holding up great.  I think perhaps clear contact paper would be a good idea to use to cover the paper, or perhaps just cover the box with colorful contact paper.  But I tend to use what I have on hand--which at the time was wrapping paper and packing tape.

We added an OCC flyer to the front.

I hope this might be helpful for someone else who needs to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox fillers.  If you would like to see more tips for packing check out our series of Tips for Packing Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes.