Gather the kids and grandkids: pack a shoebox (or more!) and drop it off November 16-23.

Packing a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child can be a favorite family Christmas tradition or a new one to start this year. It's a chance for parents, grandparents and children to have fun putting together a special gift and share the joy of Christmas with a child somewhere in the world.

Part of the fun is filling the box with surprises, from small toys and games to school supplies and personal care items. It's a simple family activity that becomes part of something bigger, sharing gifts with children around the world through Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan's Purse.

Since 1993, more than 244 million shoebox gifts have reached children in more than 175 countries and territories.

Once the shoeboxes are packed, bring them to a local collection site November 16-23.

Find nearby drop-off locations, hours, packing instructions and gift suggestions: samaritanspurse.org/occ