Operation Christmas Child Processing Center

[@bluffcitybounty2122]

So fun! I’m dying to go to a PC! I live in the Memphis area, though, and there isn’t one terribly close. I guess ATL would be our best bet. :) I do pack year-round, though. Can I ask…do you get to request to be an inspector? In other words, do you get to choose your “job” at the PC? Thanks!

[@mcmillenfamilylife]

Yes! You need to go! I have been involved with shoeboxes for over a decade and this was my first time. I wish I hadn't waited. We are about the same distance from ATL as you are! Yes, when you arrive you are partnered with other volunteers (unless you take a large group that will fill the whole line). Our line leader meet us and walked us to our line and explained each role! Everyone could do any or all rolls. We swapped roles with others in our line just to get the full experience! My husband and I didn't know any of the other people when we arrived and I felt like we were close friends when we left! Let me know if you have any other questions, I love to share!

[@bluffcitybounty2122]

@@mcmillenfamilylife So helpful! Thank you! I guess my next question is…how old do you need to be to volunteer? I have a daughter who will be 13 in July. But I’m thinking she may have to wait another year or two?

[@mcmillenfamilylife]

@@bluffcitybounty2122 She will get to go this year!! They have to be 13 or older. 👍

[@bluffcitybounty2122]

@@mcmillenfamilylife YAY! That’s great news!

[@The8201]

so what happens to the items that are pulled from the boxes as inappropriate?

[@mcmillenfamilylife]

Good morning! These items are donated to the local area. I am not actually sure how they choose where the donations go. I would imagine that the local Operation Christmas Child team works with the community to decide on area charities and organizations that can use the donations. Some of the items that can't be sent include toothpaste, any type of liquid (including paint), or toys that contain liquid. I hope this helps!

[@Vernonu9]

We used a Nike shoebox last year, do the items usually get switched over to one of those official Operation Christmas Child boxes?

[@mcmillenfamilylife]

Any shoebox works great! Some people even wrap their shoebox with wrapping paper! We do not switch the boxes to a preprinted box. However, the pre-printed boxes can be ordered online (cardboard or plastic) if you would like. Let me know if you have any other questions, I enjoy sharing! www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/order-pre-printed-shoeboxes/