That’s what we’re proposing! Cross Catholic sponsors a Box of Joy program to provide Christmas gifts for children of the missions.
Saint Francis of Assisi Parish has traditionally been very generous with Christmas gift projects. In an effort to avoid interfering with those, we will be collecting Christmas gifts for the children during July and we will store them to be sent in November.
Boxes will be available after weekend Masses, July 15th, 16th; and July 22nd, 23rd. You may choose the age and gender you wish to buy for. Simply fill the box (they are small--it will cost about $10), insert $9 for shipping, and return it by July 30th.
Here are some suggestions that will fit in the small box: Unopened fast-food toys, craft kits, bean bags, silly putty, jacks, binoculars, yo-yo, slinky, jump rope, harmonica, school supplies including glue sticks (but not liquid), shoe laces, hats, plastic poncho, underwear, lip balm, nail clippers, sewing kit, solar flashlight (no battery flashlights), duct tape. Please don’t give food or liquid, or anything that is perishable in the heat. Also avoid military-style toys.
You are encouraged to add a personal note or handmade Christmas card. If you wish, include a photo of yourself. On top of the gifts place $9 cash. This is for shipping and any excess will go to the priests to help with the missions. We will remove those from the boxes and write a single check to Cross Catholic to send with our gifts. Please put a rubber band around your box. Feel free to take more than one.
It may be the first Christmas gift your child receives!