From Red Oak to the World

Donations from the county’s Samaritan’s Purse program are on their way to benefit needy children from all over the world.
Last Monday, Nov. 21, donations from Faith Community Church in Red Oak and others were taken to Minnesota to be sorted and shipped out to kids overseas who likely wouldn’t get anything for Christmas otherwise.
Samaritan’s Purse was initially started by Rev. Franklin Graham in 1990. Three years ago, a local effort was spearheaded by Stanton resident Margie Swanson. Four churches in Montgomery County, as well as numerous individual donors donated to the program this year. Swanson said there was a welcome uptick in donation numbers this year.
“This year we had 359 boxes donated. Last year we only had 311 donations, so we’re very happy with the increase,” Swanson said.
Items are donated in a shoebox, and include a variety of items, some specified, and others left up to individual donors.
“We start with the basic needs of soap, a washcloth, toothpastes, a toothbrush and toys. Sometimes though all sorts of different items are added, such as blankets, or even hammers. We concentrate on the basic needs, as the boxes are going into underdeveloped nations where they don’t have these things.”
The only requirement for donations are that they must be in a shoebox, or a plastic container roughly the size of a shoebox. After the boxes are inspected, Swanson said they go a variety of places.
“Last year, they went to Madagascar, Africa, and Mexico. We’ve also had boxes sent to Australia. They usually are sent to the neediest of areas. After the kids get a box, they’re invited to a Bible study, as well as their family. It’s a missionary effort to reach people for Christ. That’s what it’s all about,” commented Swanson.
Though not required, some of the donors, including Swanson, include letters and photos in their boxes, and Swanson said she’s had some amazing results.
“I got my first email last year. It’s very exciting when you can communicate with the families. The person who’s writing me is a pastor in Africa who emails me every week. It’s exciting to get a response and see who you are reaching,” Swanson said.
It’s a very special feeling, Swanson said, to be able to donate and brighten the life of a child who may not get that help otherwise.
“What touches my heart is watching the videos of kids getting their boxes. These kids don’t have anything. So we’re bringing them happiness and reaching them for Jesus. For me, it’s touching to see these kids get something special. I can’t put into words how special a feeling it is, and that’s why I keep doing it year after year,” said Swanson.
Swanson has no plans to stop her volunteer efforts within the program any time soon.
“It’s only a couple weeks out of the year that is busy, and there’s such a need in the world to reach these people. It’s a wonderful program.”
Swanson said even though the latest drive is completed, she collects items for the program all year round. If anyone wishes to donate early to the Samaritan’s Purse program for next year, Swanson is happy to store items or take donations.
Swanson can be reached at 712-370-0421.