Operation Shoebox was founded in 2003 to send support over to our men and women deployed out side of the USA to help raise their morale and let them know they are cared about. We accomplish our mission with care packages, letters, and bulk shipping of items that can be beneficial to them during their deployment. Our Organization is composed of over 1300 dedicated volunteers in three locations and also volunteers all across the USA that assist in accomplishing our mission. Without the support of these dedicated people we would not be able to accomplish what we do.
There are a few different programs we have to assist the troops.
Care Packages: Each care package is sent in a cloth bag with a draw string that was handmade with love by one of our volunteers. These packages all contain a hand written letter to our troops letting them know they are in our thoughts and prayers. In addition to the letter the care package contains snacks, hygiene and stationary packets. We try to include a beenie baby in each package when available so the troops can either keep them or hand them out to the children while out on their missions.
Wounded Warrior Program: This program was started in an effort to help the wounded warriors that were injured and brought into the Combat Support Hospitals. Most injured warriors don't travel with their personal gear and at times their uniforms may need to be cut off to treat their injuries therefore, these book bags were made to assist them in their stay and if being transported to a larger facility. These bags are filled with a change of clothes, socks, hygiene bag, calling card, get well card and stationary items. It can be used to collect their other items as they are in transit.
Toys and Schools Supplies: This program was established to assist our troops in their humanitarian efforts with the children in the areas that they are deployed. When requested and available we will send out toys and school supplies to these troops in hopes that we create good will among the people of these countries. We are always in need of beanie babies and stuffed animals for these programs.
Troops for Teachers: This program pairs Teachers and their classrooms in the USA with volunteer troops deployed outside the USA. The children learn about the area the troop is serving as well as his/her experiences. It also teaches some geography of where the troops are located in the world and what its like for them to be deployed so far away from family and friends. This has been a very successful program for both the troops and the children.
Bulk Shipments: From time to time we receive large amounts of items that our troops can use, such as coffee, books and large bottles of shampoo and body wash. These items are shipped in bulk to units that are able to receive them.
Group Support: We also work with various groups that want to help support the troops.
Your mission gift during the month of August to The Congregational Church monthly mission effort will go to help Operation Shoe Box and all of it's various good works.
The Congregational Church is an active member of Love INC. Working together with 25 churches of various denominations we are touching the lives of hundreds of families here in the tri-county area.
First Congregational Church Missions
Last year our little starter church gave more than $12,000 to various missions here in Central Florida and around the world. We also contributed hundreds of pounds of food, hundreds of mittens, and many volunteer hours to helping our community.
Two local projects started by our congregation continue every day to bless people. The Baby and Toddler Pantry reaches mothers and children with basic necessities (baby food, clothing, diapers and more).
The Baby and Toddler Pantry is open Tuesdays from 10:00 am - 2:00 p.m. and 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm. Open Saturdays 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The Baby and Toddler Pantry is located in The Congregational Church Ministry Center, 114 S. Old Dixie Hwy, Lady Lake, FL 32159.For information call:352-753-7647.
The church also planted a butterfly garden at the Cornerstone Hospice facility which brightens the days of patients, families and staff.
The Congregational Church decided upon it's formation to covenant to give at least 10% of our General Fund budget to mission causes. We have kept that promise and continue to surpass that goal.
top