Clarksville, Ark.-The University of the Ozarks chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes recently volunteered its time and resources to assist in Operation Christmas Child.
Operation Christmas Child is managed by Samaritan's Purse, a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. The Operation Christmas Child project involves packing a shoebox full of toys, hygiene kits, clothing and other needed items for impoverished children around the world.
Each U of O team on campus collected items for the boxes. Student-athletes then helped pack 70 boxes for the charity. FCA President Micaela Winters helped organize the event.
"It is really wonderful for our athletes to have this opportunity and to be able to work together as an entire athletic department," said Winters. "It is for children that we don't know and to provide things for them is great."
According to its web site, Samaritan's Purse has been in operation since 1970 and has helped meet needs of people who are victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease, and famine with the purpose of sharing God's love through His Son, Jesus Christ.
It is the third straight year the U of O athletic department has assisted with Operation Christmas Child.