“Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the people of Macon County, Operation Christmas Child had a very successful season in our area,” shared Brenda Hackett, Samaritan’s Purse/Operation Christmas Child’s Media Support for the Western North Carolina Area Team. She explained that across the United States, the Samaritan’s Purse project collected 10 million shoebox gifts by the end of 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending more than 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide.
“We also want to thank and recognize the employees of Mountain Credit Union for their generous donation of $1,056 to be applied to the distribution costs of shoeboxes. These funds will help in the distribution process of over 100 gift-filled shoeboxes,” she said.
Through shoeboxes, which are packed with toys, school supplies, and personal care items, Macon County area volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world, explained Hackett. “Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.”
CareNet receives generous check
Presbyterian churches often have “daily change” Sundays that encourage congregants to donate loose change. Then, at the end of the year, the surplus of monies is donated to a nonprofit.
Recently, Macon County Care Network (CareNet) was awarded $5,000 by First Presbyterian Church in Franklin. The money donated will assist people in Macon County experiencing food insecurity.Said CareNet Executive Director Tim Hogsed, “Thank you to First Presbyterian Church for their support! Thankful for this grant. At a time when food costs are high, this will help provide food to kids. We have a great community that is willing to help.”