I’m not crying! Ok, I AM crying 😢! It fills my heart to know that the work we do means so much to these children of God. Your boxes are a great inspiration for me. I often “box lift” your ideas. Thanks for all you do!
Oh I’m sorry you are crying!!!! I can’t believe I made it through without crying myself! We are all doing great work that means so much to these children! I have more stories but the video was already getting long. The stories and responses just make me want to pack more! Box lift away! That’s the nicest compliment. I boxlift too! 🤣😂 Thank you so much for watching!💕
This video really endears you and all of the thoughtfulness you lovingly put into shopping and packaging for children around the globe, to all of us - even more. You're such a representation of the love of Jesus. May the seeds you're planting produce much yield.
Your kind message brings me a tear. I think I will post this on my wall where I pack for inspiration… “May the seeds you’re planting produce much yield.” Thank you for this. I can’t tell you how much it is appreciated. God bless you. 💕
Good morning friend! Great video! Lots of information and tips and love hearing and seeing photos of some amazing kids you helped🥰...the shirt/shoebox really meant for the little boy. Wow! God is always good!🙌🏼🙏🏼....love to see all the children's smiling with their box they received from you💗...May God bless you and your beautiful family for helping kids around the world and that you continue to bless more kids with shoeboxes fill with lots of love🌎💗🙏🏼 TFS! I enjoyed watching. Have a blessed day friend💛
Thanks Vero! God is good indeed! I believe he knows where the right child is for each box! I’ve heard too many stories for this not to be true! I’ve been very blessed to hear back from so many happy children. Thank you for watching my friend and God bless you!
Love, love, love! Our process is similar…I also take a photo of each box (although don’t do the collage- what a great idea!) and always include my Facebook name. That’s also where I get the most responses, although like you, I have also gotten emails. The responses are so special. Thank you for sharing your sweet responses. The photos melt your heart. Can’t wait to see who we hear from in 2023. ❤
I am getting excited to hear back from some this year too! It brings me comfort and reinforces our mission. Also finding out that they have decided to take the 12 week course and accept Jesus as their Savior is just amazing!
I really wish I could give you a huge hug!!!! This has got to be one of the best Operation Christmas Child video's I've seen. Thank you so much for sharing, it filled my heart with so much joy that it spilled out of my eyes. A true blessing to have such wonderful story's to share from your recipients. I'm sure this video will inspire others to add their info in hopes to receive a response. I really enjoyed seeing their happy little faces that's what makes it all worth it.
Awww… thanks Bonnie! I wish I could hug you too! In fact I’m shocked I’m made it through this video without getting emotional. I’m such a sissy when it comes to OCC. I cry easily. The stories are just so touching! And they reinforce what we do! It is truly a blessing to hear from each one and to remember how blessed I am. Thank you for watching and sharing your heart. (Sorry, didn’t mean to tear you up.😅)
Denise, I had to wait to respond bc I was in tears. Thank you for sharing this. And just as you are a beautiful soul inside, you’re beautiful on the outside too. So glad to get to see you! And YOU GO GIRL with the Spanish and Google translate! I’m not Hispanic but I speak read and write Spanish fluently from a young child so I think it’s awesome you communicate in their language. This was so inspiring and emotional. Makes everything we do so worth it! ❤️❤️
Thanks Jeannie! Your response is encouraging also because I had to step out of my box a little to film this. That’s terrific that you speak and write fluently. I’ll pray you receive a response from a Spanish speaking country! It’s hard work keeping up with the conversation pace with only Google translate!😂🤣 They are just as excited as me when I hear from them! I’m shocked I made it through the video without crying also. I get very emotional when I think of these kids and their responses. Thank you so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it! 💕Now back behind the camera for me! Lol 😎
That is wonderful! I have never received a physical letter. What a treasured keepsake for you! I’ve received only a tiny percentage of emails. Mostly FB messenger. Thank you for sharing and watching!
Thanks Kayla! That’s good to know coming from you. I do my best under each individual circumstance. Thank you so much for watching. God bless you and your work for the Lord. 💕
Dear friend, your are beautiful inside and out! Thank you for taking the time and openly sharing your heart and experience in this lovely shoebox journey. You put your heart and soul in each and every box you pack and it thrills me to see the many responses. Thanks for all the tips, especially about FB. You have a heart of gold! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you dear friend! I know you will be receiving many responses also! I’m glad you enjoyed the video and my shared experience. Not easy for me to be on camera but for this one I felt it was important to do. 😘
Yay, great to see your face again, Denise! Hollywood, here you come! Wow, 17 responses last year, 13 this year? I'm the one wishing to get my first one. You have a lovely home, BTW! I love that you take pictures of your shoeboxes! I do that too to an extent. But I should really document my shoeboxes just for future references just if I get a response. That's interesting that you get the most responses to Facebook messenger! Ok, I will add my FB contact from now on. Good tips of your conversation with the recipients! I'm not surprised that some do ask for money. So sweet that you still in contact with some of them! I can understand your first response recipient was your favorite! She is precious and you can tell, very thankful. The shirt story is AMAZING! I love hearing all the recipient stories! Very encouraging and rewarding! Anyway, you are a natural on camera! Thanks for sharing, Denise!
Well I am praying that you get your first response too. And when you do you will NOT forget it. I cried when I got my first one several years ago. Taking pics really helps me in so many ways. It’s a little work but so worth it to me. Def add your FB screen name if you are comfortable doing so. For some reason it seems to be the easiest for them to do. Isn’t Valentinah just beautiful with all her items laid out on the floor? And then cuddling the stuffie? So sweet! I’ll never forget her. So many sweet stories. Yes, I have one girl whose not so little anymore from a hard to reach area. She calls me aunty! Lol. Oh so not a natural on camera but thank you so much! It took a lot for me to do it. I’ll just scoot back behind the camera now!😎 I’m glad you enjoyed it! Thank you my dear friend! 🥰
Wonderful video, Denise, and very informative. I’ve never before included my Facebook info in my letters, but plan to do it this year. Thank you so much for that tip. It was heartwarming to hear the responses you received and see some of the photos. Thank you for sharing your treasured responses 😍
Thanks Trish! They are treasured indeed. I will never forget them. It’s very confirming and moving at the same time. I’m not sure why Facebook seems to be so easy for them to use but it is. If you are comfortable I would encourage you to include your FB information. Thank you for watching my friend! 🥰
Denise, this is an absolutely wonderful video! It makes me want to pause long enough to pack more in my OCC shoe boxes! So inspiring to see the children and hear about them! This kind of video should definitely be an annual thing. You could even present it to others to encourage them to join you in year-round packing. Thank you!
Thanks Lisa! Yes, I thought it could encourage others to see the precious faces of the children receiving our boxes. It makes me want to pack more! Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.💕
Thank you for sharing the stories of the recipients that received your boxes. I loved hearing how the boxes made such a big impact on these children’s lives. After hearing Barrett family and your story about kiddos 15-18 joining the party, I feel that OCC needs to start distributing15-18 year old boxes. I would love to pack older boxes. Hearing the children’s story and how it made a difference in their life makes me realize why we pack shoeboxes and want to continue packing boxes.
Thank you Izzy! I would love to pack for that age range also! I feel like they would take away so much from a shoebox gift experience! Clearly they are attending the events so it would make sense. These responses always remind me why we do this and inspires me to do more. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching! It was a long one for me! 😁
Denise, thank you for doing this video! Great info and tips. Can’t believe how many responses you’ve received. Loved seeing the pics. Very interesting to hear about their favorite item. So glad you did this video. Btw, front of the camera suits you
Thank you Maritza! I’m soooo glad you enjoyed it! I had more stories but I’m not a fan of long videos so I didn’t share them all. Maybe I’ll do it again down the road. I really do think FB is one key. The country is another I believe. I am thankful for the responses and I know that I am blessed to receive them. . And thank you … but I’ll scoot back behind the camera now. Lol.😎
What a wonderful video, Denise. Thank you for putting the time and effort it took in making this one. This year, for the first time, I'm sending a note, picture, and a sticker with our email address. Maybe, next year, I will do my FB info. You've received many wonderful replies !!!
Thanks Judy! I would def recommend FB contact info if you are comfortable. It seems to be their choice of communication. At least for me. I’ve always wanted to do this video… it just took time to gather all my info for it. Some people are starting to get responses so I thought it might be helpful. Thank you again friend!
wonderful video Denise! i love how you share your heart so sincerely... you are such a sweet, beautiful soul! i also love how your channel really is everything OCC! not just unboxings, but hauls, tips, crafts, stories, everything... its awesome! God bless you more and more my dear friend! 💖💖💖
Thanks Niki for your wonderfully sweet comment. I really appreciate you. You are a gift to OCC. I’m much more comfortable behind the camera but thought it was important to share this one in person. I’m glad you enjoyed it. I will continue to do what I can to help our OCC community all in hopes of increasing awareness and encouraging others. It can only bring more shoebox gifts, right? As do you… I love this ministry. God bless you also my dear talented friend. 🥰
Thank you for sharing. It was so inspiring to hear the feedback you have gotten. Plus I love having a face to put with another of my fellow Pencil Granny friends. :)
Hey Friend! Yes! One of my favorite pencil packers! You are the best! Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment! It means a lot and I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’m packing pencils RIGHT now as I type! No kidding! Lol
You had me in tears with the story of the shirt. Also, I’ve been meaning to ask why you send socks. In most countries in Africa and areas in India, most kids don’t wear shoes. Adults usually wear sandals if they can afford them or flip flops if they can’t. I’m sure the children and families receiving your boxes feel blessed. You’re truly doing God’s work. Thank you.
Thank you Ali! Socks are on the recommended list from OCC. Did you see the video I recently posted about what a boy from Malawi wanted in his shoebox? Yep… amongst other basic items… socks! So you just never know. I figure they can always use them to keep their feet warm at night too. Thank you so much for watching. I still think so much about the boy who got the shirt that fit him. It’s amazing and brings me to tears every time. God bless you!
Hi Denise, Thank-you for sharing your tips and experiences on Shoebox kids' responses. I love hearing stories from the feild and getting some insight into the kids' pick of items to packl into the shoebox. Kayla (Bible w the Barreto Family) explained in a recent Vid. that often she does not have enough Mr. 10-14 boxes. So, it is funny how a Mr. 2-4 received your box packed for Mr. 10-14. This being said, I did send a play/ party favour harmonica in a Mr. 2-4 box last year. It was packed as a filler item - i.e. not the WOW! Imagine, how disappointed my Mr. 2-4 would have been knowing he didn't get the real /authentic one! - A great reminder to pack quality items because we really don't know what will bring a child joy! 😍
Thanks Fiona! I did watch Kayla’s recent video and heard that! So it’s so strange that this little one got an older boys box. Thank goodness my rule to pack a stuffie in every box worked well here. And good thing he did not get one of my tool boxes which would have also had a stuffie but also many things a 4 year old could not play with. Yes, you are right. Quality over quantity also. But I’ve seen your boxes and they are overflowing with quality!!!! Your recipients will surely be blessed! TFW friend! Hope you enjoyed meeting me… we’ll sort of…and loved the stories. I have more! But the video would have been too long. 😀
It is so wonderful to see you Denise! This video was amazing and so many different ways for me. I loved the information you gave on how to respond to things. This year I will be adding my information to my letters and hope to receive a response or two. This was so informative and seeing the beautiful children and families that contacted you had me in tears. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful video!
Thanks Anna Beth! I hope you will receive a response also! It is so validating and brings me joy to see their sweet faces. I’m so glad the video was helpful. It’s only my experience but I think the stories are great and there’s some good tips in there. Thank you for watching! Back to behind the camera for me! 🤣😂🤣
Thanks Bernie. Yes, for many it is a long wait. I’m sure you will not forget that child. I cried when I got my first one several years ago. Thank you for watching.
I remember awhile ago hoping you would do a video like this!! I'm so glad you did! This was SO ENCOURAGING!! I loved the pictures and their letters. It was precious hearing their favorite items 💕 💖
Thank you Jessica! It took me stepping outside of my box…. Or shall we say the phone… to film it but I thought it could be helpful and encouraging. I’m glad it was! 🥰
Denise this video is so wonderful!! This is going to be my 3rd year packing boxes but I never included a picture or contact information!! Last year was my 1st time adding a note to the children!! It’s so wonderful to hear your experience with stories!! Love seeing the children enjoying their boxes!! I will be included my email this year to the boxes and a family picture too!! Grate tips very kind of you to share!! TFS and Crafty hugs ❤️🤗!!
Thank you Vanesa! I’m so glad you are sending a letter and picture! Many times they’ve also told me that their favorite thing was the letter or picture! They love getting them! It allows them to connect with the person who sent the gift from so far away and who loves them! Thanks for watching and I’m soooo happy you enjoyed it! 💕🤗
Thank you for the interesting insight! Seeing pictures of recipients motivates me a lot. 💖 So far I have not dared to give an e-mail address or something similar. But maybe I will do it in the future!! Thank you, Denise 🙂
Thank you Elena. It is a personal choice on whether or not to include your information. I meant to mention that in the video too. But that being said, it can be so rewarding to hear back and encourages me even more. Thank you for taking the time to watch.
Fantastic video! Thanks for sharing. It was so great to see you. You look lovely 🥰 I don’t get many responses so I love that you have shared some of yours. I choose not to be on Facebook so that is probably why I don’t get many responses. I have gotten some via email along with a few photos. I treasure them! My fave was a little 4 year old girl from South Africa who had the dress on that I sent her. She had the biggest smile and cutest face ever. She was standing with one knee bent and on her tip toes and one hand on the other hip. She was posing just like the girls do around here. She was so adorable. ❤️.
Thanks Val! I think I remember that response you got and how sweet it was!!! Such a treasure, right? I treasure these responses and sometimes just think about them. Makes me want to give them everything! 🥰
I've never heard back from any boy I've sent a box too. I have heard back from teenage girls and a two young ones. I wish my boxes went to Africa. They go to Mexico 90% of the time. I'd like them to go more places.
I really think it depends where your boxes are processed which then can determine what the receiving countries are. For example usually my boxes are processed in Charlotte but this year they were sent to Baltimore and the countries were different. I’m not sure how OCC determined the country but it might be based on distance, your location, and other logistics. Thanks for watching!
@@drogers I once sent a few to Minnesota when they had a processing center just to get them to go elsewhere. They no longer have a processing center there but it was nice having them go to Africa.
Could you please list the favorite items that your kids that responded have said they liked the most. I really appreciate your videos. This year is the first time my husband I have made boxes. We are doing 2 boxes girls 10-14. I haven’t included a doll or stuffed animal. I don’t feel led to add the toys like I have the other items in the box but don’t want to disappoint the girls. Thank you so much, Julie
Hi Julie! Thanks for watching! I am currently out of the country on a much needed vacation but can reply more in depth when I return. I can tell you that a few that stuck out in my mind are a recorder, soccer ball, watch, shoes, dress/shirt, dolls, purses, wallets and school supplies are a big hit!!!!
I thinks it’s great that this community of OCC packers continues to share information from hauls, to packing, to volunteering, to receiving responses. ❤️💚
Thanks for sharing these Denise! It’s also really good to see you 😉 I haven’t really been inclined to put my contact info my boxes. I kind of like the mystery of it 😅 Though I am curious as to where my boxes go (since we don’t have tracking yet)
You don’t have tracking? Wow! I thought that was available everywhere. Well then it is really a mystery! The option to include contact information is a personal decision for sure. And I can understand how some may feel. For me, it has brought me great joy and inspiration and I’ve made some sweet friends along the way! One little girl calls me Aunty! Lol. Thanks for watching! And now I’ll scoot back behind the camera. Lol😎
Yes, of course. I mention it at the end of the video. About 120 boxes were sent in 2020. They went to Madagascar, Mali, Honduras and Hard to Reach areas. Hope that helps.
@@drogers I wrote that before I heard the end of your video; sorry for making you be redundant. I too sent around 130 boxes each of last couple of years. I have never thought to put email and fb contacts, but that's a great tip. I also have never made themed boxes as so many youtubers promote, but I believe God can and will bless each child with the gifts we include. Thank you for your guidance.
@@lollyd1276 no worries! I am happy to help! Not every box I send is a theme but I do really enjoy putting them together. OCC just wants a nice well rounded and full box. And that is what I try to share in many of my videos. I know God will bless each child with a special box. I really believe that. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thoughts. I really appreciate it and pray you will hear back from a recipient also. It is indeed a blessing.
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I’m not crying! Ok, I AM crying 😢! It fills my heart to know that the work we do means so much to these children of God. Your boxes are a great inspiration for me. I often “box lift” your ideas. Thanks for all you do!
Oh I’m sorry you are crying!!!! I can’t believe I made it through without crying myself! We are all doing great work that means so much to these children! I have more stories but the video was already getting long. The stories and responses just make me want to pack more! Box lift away! That’s the nicest compliment. I boxlift too! 🤣😂 Thank you so much for watching!💕
This video really endears you and all of the thoughtfulness you lovingly put into shopping and packaging for children around the globe, to all of us - even more. You're such a representation of the love of Jesus. May the seeds you're planting produce much yield.
Your kind message brings me a tear. I think I will post this on my wall where I pack for inspiration… “May the seeds you’re planting produce much yield.” Thank you for this. I can’t tell you how much it is appreciated. God bless you. 💕
Good morning friend! Great video! Lots of information and tips and love hearing and seeing photos of some amazing kids you helped🥰...the shirt/shoebox really meant for the little boy. Wow! God is always good!🙌🏼🙏🏼....love to see all the children's smiling with their box they received from you💗...May God bless you and your beautiful family for helping kids around the world and that you continue to bless more kids with shoeboxes fill with lots of love🌎💗🙏🏼 TFS! I enjoyed watching. Have a blessed day friend💛
Thanks Vero! God is good indeed! I believe he knows where the right child is for each box! I’ve heard too many stories for this not to be true! I’ve been very blessed to hear back from so many happy children. Thank you for watching my friend and God bless you!
Love, love, love! Our process is similar…I also take a photo of each box (although don’t do the collage- what a great idea!) and always include my Facebook name. That’s also where I get the most responses, although like you, I have also gotten emails. The responses are so special. Thank you for sharing your sweet responses. The photos melt your heart. Can’t wait to see who we hear from in 2023. ❤
I am getting excited to hear back from some this year too! It brings me comfort and reinforces our mission. Also finding out that they have decided to take the 12 week course and accept Jesus as their Savior is just amazing!
Love this video so much thanks for sharing Denise, it made me tear up a few times 🤍🤍
Thank you Melissa! I’m shocked I held it together for the video. I cry sometimes just thinking about it. God is good. 💕
I really wish I could give you a huge hug!!!! This has got to be one of the best Operation Christmas Child video's I've seen. Thank you so much for sharing, it filled my heart with so much joy that it spilled out of my eyes. A true blessing to have such wonderful story's to share from your recipients. I'm sure this video will inspire others to add their info in hopes to receive a response. I really enjoyed seeing their happy little faces that's what makes it all worth it.
Awww… thanks Bonnie! I wish I could hug you too! In fact I’m shocked I’m made it through this video without getting emotional. I’m such a sissy when it comes to OCC. I cry easily. The stories are just so touching! And they reinforce what we do! It is truly a blessing to hear from each one and to remember how blessed I am. Thank you for watching and sharing your heart. (Sorry, didn’t mean to tear you up.😅)
Denise, I had to wait to respond bc I was in tears. Thank you for sharing this. And just as you are a beautiful soul inside, you’re beautiful on the outside too. So glad to get to see you! And YOU GO GIRL with the Spanish and Google translate! I’m not Hispanic but I speak read and write Spanish fluently from a young child so I think it’s awesome you communicate in their language. This was so inspiring and emotional. Makes everything we do so worth it! ❤️❤️
Thanks Jeannie! Your response is encouraging also because I had to step out of my box a little to film this. That’s terrific that you speak and write fluently. I’ll pray you receive a response from a Spanish speaking country! It’s hard work keeping up with the conversation pace with only Google translate!😂🤣 They are just as excited as me when I hear from them! I’m shocked I made it through the video without crying also. I get very emotional when I think of these kids and their responses. Thank you so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it! 💕Now back behind the camera for me! Lol 😎
@@drogers ohhh idk how you made it without crying either! ❤️❤️
Thanks for sharing your experience. Seeing those sweet little faces motivates me to pack more. ❤️
Thanks Denise. It motivates me too. So precious. 💕
I have only received physical letters a couple of times, all from remote parts of Africa. I tend to have more emails.
That is wonderful! I have never received a physical letter. What a treasured keepsake for you! I’ve received only a tiny percentage of emails. Mostly FB messenger. Thank you for sharing and watching!
I really enjoyed hearing the stories of these children and seeing their pictures. Thank you so much for sharing! :-)
Thank you Meredith! I have even more stories but I didn’t want the video to go on even longer. They always warm my heart.
Love hearing these stories... you have wonderful suggestions for how to respond when you get messages from shoebox recipients.
Thanks Kayla! That’s good to know coming from you. I do my best under each individual circumstance. Thank you so much for watching. God bless you and your work for the Lord. 💕
Dear friend, your are beautiful inside and out! Thank you for taking the time and openly sharing your heart and experience in this lovely shoebox journey. You put your heart and soul in each and every box you pack and it thrills me to see the many responses. Thanks for all the tips, especially about FB. You have a heart of gold! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you dear friend! I know you will be receiving many responses also! I’m glad you enjoyed the video and my shared experience. Not easy for me to be on camera but for this one I felt it was important to do. 😘
Yay, great to see your face again, Denise! Hollywood, here you come! Wow, 17 responses last year, 13 this year? I'm the one wishing to get my first one. You have a lovely home, BTW! I love that you take pictures of your shoeboxes! I do that too to an extent. But I should really document my shoeboxes just for future references just if I get a response. That's interesting that you get the most responses to Facebook messenger! Ok, I will add my FB contact from now on. Good tips of your conversation with the recipients! I'm not surprised that some do ask for money. So sweet that you still in contact with some of them! I can understand your first response recipient was your favorite! She is precious and you can tell, very thankful. The shirt story is AMAZING! I love hearing all the recipient stories! Very encouraging and rewarding! Anyway, you are a natural on camera! Thanks for sharing, Denise!
Well I am praying that you get your first response too. And when you do you will NOT forget it. I cried when I got my first one several years ago. Taking pics really helps me in so many ways. It’s a little work but so worth it to me. Def add your FB screen name if you are comfortable doing so. For some reason it seems to be the easiest for them to do. Isn’t Valentinah just beautiful with all her items laid out on the floor? And then cuddling the stuffie? So sweet! I’ll never forget her. So many sweet stories. Yes, I have one girl whose not so little anymore from a hard to reach area. She calls me aunty! Lol. Oh so not a natural on camera but thank you so much! It took a lot for me to do it. I’ll just scoot back behind the camera now!😎 I’m glad you enjoyed it! Thank you my dear friend! 🥰
Wonderful video, Denise, and very informative. I’ve never before included my Facebook info in my letters, but plan to do it this year. Thank you so much for that tip. It was heartwarming to hear the responses you received and see some of the photos. Thank you for sharing your treasured responses 😍
Thanks Trish! They are treasured indeed. I will never forget them. It’s very confirming and moving at the same time. I’m not sure why Facebook seems to be so easy for them to use but it is. If you are comfortable I would encourage you to include your FB information. Thank you for watching my friend! 🥰
Denise, this is an absolutely wonderful video! It makes me want to pause long enough to pack more in my OCC shoe boxes! So inspiring to see the children and hear about them! This kind of video should definitely be an annual thing. You could even present it to others to encourage them to join you in year-round packing. Thank you!
Thanks Lisa! Yes, I thought it could encourage others to see the precious faces of the children receiving our boxes. It makes me want to pack more! Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.💕
Thank you for sharing the stories of the recipients that received your boxes. I loved hearing how the boxes made such a big impact on these children’s lives. After hearing Barrett family and your story about kiddos 15-18 joining the party, I feel that OCC needs to start distributing15-18 year old boxes. I would love to pack older boxes. Hearing the children’s story and how it made a difference in their life makes me realize why we pack shoeboxes and want to continue packing boxes.
Thank you Izzy! I would love to pack for that age range also! I feel like they would take away so much from a shoebox gift experience! Clearly they are attending the events so it would make sense. These responses always remind me why we do this and inspires me to do more. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching! It was a long one for me! 😁
Denise, thank you for doing this video! Great info and tips. Can’t believe how many responses you’ve received. Loved seeing the pics. Very interesting to hear about their favorite item. So glad you did this video. Btw, front of the camera suits you
Thank you Maritza! I’m soooo glad you enjoyed it! I had more stories but I’m not a fan of long videos so I didn’t share them all. Maybe I’ll do it again down the road. I really do think FB is one key. The country is another I believe. I am thankful for the responses and I know that I am blessed to receive them. . And thank you … but I’ll scoot back behind the camera now. Lol.😎
What a wonderful video, Denise. Thank you for putting the time and effort it took in making this one. This year, for the first time, I'm sending a note, picture, and a sticker with our email address. Maybe, next year, I will do my FB info. You've received many wonderful replies !!!
Thanks Judy! I would def recommend FB contact info if you are comfortable. It seems to be their choice of communication. At least for me. I’ve always wanted to do this video… it just took time to gather all my info for it. Some people are starting to get responses so I thought it might be helpful. Thank you again friend!
wonderful video Denise! i love how you share your heart so sincerely... you are such a sweet, beautiful soul! i also love how your channel really is everything OCC! not just unboxings, but hauls, tips, crafts, stories, everything... its awesome! God bless you more and more my dear friend! 💖💖💖
Thanks Niki for your wonderfully sweet comment. I really appreciate you. You are a gift to OCC. I’m much more comfortable behind the camera but thought it was important to share this one in person. I’m glad you enjoyed it. I will continue to do what I can to help our OCC community all in hopes of increasing awareness and encouraging others. It can only bring more shoebox gifts, right? As do you… I love this ministry. God bless you also my dear talented friend. 🥰
Thank you for sharing your story I am going to try writing a letters in my shoes box this year.
You are welcome! I really do think a letter can be such a beautiful gift. Thanks for watching.❤️
This is so inspiring. Thanks for sharing. I've got goosebumps.
Thanks Charlotte. I hope it was inspiring to see how these boxes can impact a life…. Ours too! Hugs!
love this video Denise! Thank you. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you!💕
Thank you for sharing. It was so inspiring to hear the feedback you have gotten. Plus I love having a face to put with another of my fellow Pencil Granny friends. :)
Hey Friend! Yes! One of my favorite pencil packers! You are the best! Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment! It means a lot and I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’m packing pencils RIGHT now as I type! No kidding! Lol
You had me in tears with the story of the shirt. Also, I’ve been meaning to ask why you send socks. In most countries in Africa and areas in India, most kids don’t wear shoes. Adults usually wear sandals if they can afford them or flip flops if they can’t. I’m sure the children and families receiving your boxes feel blessed. You’re truly doing God’s work. Thank you.
Thank you Ali! Socks are on the recommended list from OCC. Did you see the video I recently posted about what a boy from Malawi wanted in his shoebox? Yep… amongst other basic items… socks! So you just never know. I figure they can always use them to keep their feet warm at night too. Thank you so much for watching. I still think so much about the boy who got the shirt that fit him. It’s amazing and brings me to tears every time. God bless you!
I have seen a list on OCC but thought they were suggestions not recommended.
Hi Denise, Thank-you for sharing your tips and experiences on Shoebox kids' responses. I love hearing stories from the feild and getting some insight into the kids' pick of items to packl into the shoebox. Kayla (Bible w the Barreto Family) explained in a recent Vid. that often she does not have enough Mr. 10-14 boxes. So, it is funny how a Mr. 2-4 received your box packed for Mr. 10-14. This being said, I did send a play/ party favour harmonica in a Mr. 2-4 box last year. It was packed as a filler item - i.e. not the WOW! Imagine, how disappointed my Mr. 2-4 would have been knowing he didn't get the real /authentic one! -
A great reminder to pack quality items because we really don't know what will bring a child joy! 😍
Thanks Fiona! I did watch Kayla’s recent video and heard that! So it’s so strange that this little one got an older boys box. Thank goodness my rule to pack a stuffie in every box worked well here. And good thing he did not get one of my tool boxes which would have also had a stuffie but also many things a 4 year old could not play with. Yes, you are right. Quality over quantity also. But I’ve seen your boxes and they are overflowing with quality!!!! Your recipients will surely be blessed! TFW friend! Hope you enjoyed meeting me… we’ll sort of…and loved the stories. I have more! But the video would have been too long. 😀
It is so wonderful to see you Denise! This video was amazing and so many different ways for me. I loved the information you gave on how to respond to things. This year I will be adding my information to my letters and hope to receive a response or two. This was so informative and seeing the beautiful children and families that contacted you had me in tears. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful video!
Thanks Anna Beth! I hope you will receive a response also! It is so validating and brings me joy to see their sweet faces. I’m so glad the video was helpful. It’s only my experience but I think the stories are great and there’s some good tips in there. Thank you for watching! Back to behind the camera for me! 🤣😂🤣
Thank You for sharing all this good information. Like many I waited 10 years to get a response.
Thanks Bernie. Yes, for many it is a long wait. I’m sure you will not forget that child. I cried when I got my first one several years ago. Thank you for watching.
I remember awhile ago hoping you would do a video like this!! I'm so glad you did! This was SO ENCOURAGING!! I loved the pictures and their letters. It was precious hearing their favorite items 💕 💖
Thank you Jessica! It took me stepping outside of my box…. Or shall we say the phone… to film it but I thought it could be helpful and encouraging. I’m glad it was! 🥰
@@drogers 💖💖
Denise this video is so wonderful!! This is going to be my 3rd year packing boxes but I never included a picture or contact information!! Last year was my 1st time adding a note to the children!! It’s so wonderful to hear your experience with stories!! Love seeing the children enjoying their boxes!! I will be included my email this year to the boxes and a family picture too!! Grate tips very kind of you to share!! TFS and Crafty hugs ❤️🤗!!
Thank you Vanesa! I’m so glad you are sending a letter and picture! Many times they’ve also told me that their favorite thing was the letter or picture! They love getting them! It allows them to connect with the person who sent the gift from so far away and who loves them! Thanks for watching and I’m soooo happy you enjoyed it! 💕🤗
What a wonderful video💗 I love hearing all of your stories. This is probably my favorite video you have done!
Thanks Emily! I just hope it helps. 💕
YOURE SO BEAUTIFUL!! Inside and out 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
You are sweet.💕
Thank you for the interesting insight! Seeing pictures of recipients motivates me a lot. 💖 So far I have not dared to give an e-mail address or something similar. But maybe I will do it in the future!! Thank you, Denise 🙂
Thank you Elena. It is a personal choice on whether or not to include your information. I meant to mention that in the video too. But that being said, it can be so rewarding to hear back and encourages me even more. Thank you for taking the time to watch.
Fantastic video! Thanks for sharing. It was so great to see you. You look lovely 🥰 I don’t get many responses so I love that you have shared some of yours. I choose not to be on Facebook so that is probably why I don’t get many responses. I have gotten some via email along with a few photos. I treasure them! My fave was a little 4 year old girl from South Africa who had the dress on that I sent her. She had the biggest smile and cutest face ever. She was standing with one knee bent and on her tip toes and one hand on the other hip. She was posing just like the girls do around here. She was so adorable. ❤️.
Thanks Val! I think I remember that response you got and how sweet it was!!! Such a treasure, right? I treasure these responses and sometimes just think about them. Makes me want to give them everything! 🥰
I've never heard back from any boy I've sent a box too. I have heard back from teenage girls and a two young ones. I wish my boxes went to Africa. They go to Mexico 90% of the time. I'd like them to go more places.
I really think it depends where your boxes are processed which then can determine what the receiving countries are. For example usually my boxes are processed in Charlotte but this year they were sent to Baltimore and the countries were different. I’m not sure how OCC determined the country but it might be based on distance, your location, and other logistics. Thanks for watching!
@@drogers I once sent a few to Minnesota when they had a processing center just to get them to go elsewhere. They no longer have a processing center there but it was nice having them go to Africa.
Could you please list the favorite items that your kids that responded have said they liked the most. I really appreciate your videos. This year is the first time my husband I have made boxes. We are doing 2 boxes girls 10-14. I haven’t included a doll or stuffed animal. I don’t feel led to add the toys like I have the other items in the box but don’t want to disappoint the girls. Thank you so much, Julie
Hi Julie! Thanks for watching! I am currently out of the country on a much needed vacation but can reply more in depth when I return. I can tell you that a few that stuck out in my mind are a recorder, soccer ball, watch, shoes, dress/shirt, dolls, purses, wallets and school supplies are a big hit!!!!
I thinks it’s great that this community of OCC packers continues to share information from hauls, to packing, to volunteering, to receiving responses. ❤️💚
Thanks Carol…. And we all give Glory to God! And by sharing we can encourage and inspire more packers! Let’s keep it up! 👍🏻💕
Thanks for sharing these Denise! It’s also really good to see you 😉
I haven’t really been inclined to put my contact info my boxes. I kind of like the mystery of it 😅
Though I am curious as to where my boxes go (since we don’t have tracking yet)
You don’t have tracking? Wow! I thought that was available everywhere. Well then it is really a mystery! The option to include contact information is a personal decision for sure. And I can understand how some may feel. For me, it has brought me great joy and inspiration and I’ve made some sweet friends along the way! One little girl calls me Aunty! Lol. Thanks for watching! And now I’ll scoot back behind the camera. Lol😎
@@drogers Haha. Yup, Canada is still lagging behind. The closest option to track we have is packing a box online. The one I did went to Costa Rica.
Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching Dale/Patricia. 💕
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If you are comfortable saying, may I ask about how many boxes you sent in 2020 when you got back 17 response?
Yes, of course. I mention it at the end of the video. About 120 boxes were sent in 2020. They went to Madagascar, Mali, Honduras and Hard to Reach areas. Hope that helps.
@@drogers I wrote that before I heard the end of your video; sorry for making you be redundant. I too sent around 130 boxes each of last couple of years. I have never thought to put email and fb contacts, but that's a great tip. I also have never made themed boxes as so many youtubers promote, but I believe God can and will bless each child with the gifts we include. Thank you for your guidance.
@@lollyd1276 no worries! I am happy to help! Not every box I send is a theme but I do really enjoy putting them together. OCC just wants a nice well rounded and full box. And that is what I try to share in many of my videos. I know God will bless each child with a special box. I really believe that. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thoughts. I really appreciate it and pray you will hear back from a recipient also. It is indeed a blessing.