In a heartwarming display of resilience, communities ravaged by Hurricane Helene are coming together this holiday season to spread joy to children across the globe. This initiative is part of Operation Christmas Child, a program overseen by Samaritan’s Purse, an evangelical humanitarian organization that focuses on providing aid to those in need.

The Mission of Operation Christmas Child

Each year, Americans rally to contribute to Operation Christmas Child, a program designed to fill shoeboxes with essential items, school supplies, and toys for children affected by crises such as war, poverty, and natural disasters. The goal for this year is ambitious, aiming to collect enough shoeboxes to bless 12 million children around the globe.

Since the inception of the program in 1993, more than 220 million shoeboxes have been distributed to over 170 countries and territories. Rev. Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan’s Purse, reflects on the growth of this initiative, stating, “The project launched with just 11,000 shoeboxes back in 1993. This year, we’re aiming to reach 12 million children around the world with the message of Jesus Christ. Only God could make this possible, and we give Him the glory for each Gospel opportunity.”

Samaritan’s Purse’s Response to Hurricane Helene

Based in Boone, North Carolina, Samaritan’s Purse faced immense challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s destruction. In response to the crisis, the organization has mobilized resources to distribute thousands of heaters, generators, blankets, and other essential winter supplies to those affected.

Moreover, in a remarkable humanitarian effort, Samaritan’s Purse completed the largest civilian airlift in American history, conducting 358 relief missions aimed at aiding individuals impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. A dedicated workforce of over 30,000 volunteers, affectionately known as “orange shirts,” has diligently worked to clean homes, cut down fallen trees, and clear debris in the affected areas.

The Impact on Local Communities

Hurricane Helene tragically resulted in the destruction of thousands of shoeboxes that had been prepared by North Carolina communities for children in need. Yet amid such losses, local families, schools, and churches have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the mission of sharing the spirit of Christmas with children around the world.

One such example comes from a church situated in the North Carolina mountains, where Rev. Graham himself attends services. The church’s youth center was severely flooded; however, due to timely action, the shoeboxes were safely moved just before the disaster struck.

Rev. Graham expressed his admiration for the local communities, stating, “The people here continue to amaze me. Despite losing so much, they remain steadfast in giving the gift of hope to children worldwide.”

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Churches like Lake Lure Baptist Church exemplify this spirit of resilience. This small congregation, consisting of 55 members, has already packed 15,000 shoeboxes this year, with an additional 1,400 sent to communities affected by the storm. Mark and Cherry Brumbelow, who have their own experience with tragedy from Hurricane Harvey, traveled from Texas to North Carolina to support local efforts.

Cherry Brumbelow remarked, “When we witnessed the suffering, we couldn’t ignore it. We sought God’s guidance on how we could help.” Their commitment to assisting those in need extends beyond their own experience, highlighting the interconnectedness of the community.

Stories of Survival and Hope

Lynda Poe, the drop-off team leader for Operation Christmas Child at Lake Lure, recounted a harrowing story of survival shared by a local church member. “He stayed in his house as long as he could, but the river rose faster than he expected. When he tried to leave in his truck, the vehicle started floating,” she explained. Fortunately, divine intervention played a role, as the truck caught on a rock, allowing the member to escape before his home was demolished.

Other churches, including the Spruce Pine First Baptist Church in North Carolina, have stepped up as local drop-off points for Operation Christmas Child while also distributing supplies and serving over 40,000 meals to community members and volunteers.

Continued Challenges

Even further afield, churches such as the First Baptist Church in Damascus, Virginia, have not been spared from Hurricane Helene’s devastation. The flash floods resulted in the loss of shoeboxes that had been meticulously gathered throughout the year, posing additional challenges to the mission.

Despite these setbacks, the spirit of giving and community remains strong. Many are finding strength through faith and the support of their neighbors as they work together to recover from the calamity while still focusing on their commitment to help children worldwide.