Lakewood Baptist is regional center for Operation Christmas Child

GAINESVILLE - For nearly two decades, Samaritan's Purse has collected and sent Christmas shoe boxes to children across the globe, totaling more than 70 million boxes into over 100 countries. Lakewood Baptist of Gainesville is again this year's regional center for the collection and distribution of the boxes.

Lakewood members and staff will be receiving shoe boxes starting Monday and continuing through November 22. Churches, civic groups, families and individuals are urged to participate with their donations. The church collected 17,000 boxes last year and envisions surpassing 20,000 this year.

Dr. Tom Smiley, Lakewood's senior minister, said "Franklin Graham of Samaritan's Purse runs his ministry with integrity and is committed to the true gospel message. Serving as an Operation Christmas Child collection center aligns with our vision and mission to be a regional church which strives to raise up fully devoted followers of Christ."

Boys and girls across the world receive the boxes. Guidelines for packing and suggestions for gifts are
available at www.samaritanspurse.org or by calling Heather Risinger at 770.532-6307. Children generally need school supplies, toys, hygiene items and other gifts. Boxes can be designated for a boy or girl.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2010/11/233766