Thanks to the generous efforts of western Colorado residents, thousands of hurting children worldwide will have the opportunity to experience the joy of Christmas. Western Colorado residents joined Operation Christmas Child, the world's largest Christmas project of its kind, to pack 8,840 shoe boxes with toys, school supplies and necessity items. The 2011 collection set a record for the Western Slope. These gift-filled shoe boxes are making their way — or have already made their way — into the hands of needy children in 100 receiving countries.

On behalf of our community, I would like to thank the volunteers at local collection sites and everyone who packed an Operation Christmas Child shoe box gift. For many of the children receiving these boxes, the simple shoe box will be the first gift they have ever received.

Although the western Colorado drop-off locations are closed until November 2012, gifts are received year-round at Samaritan's Purse, 801 Bamboo Road, Boone, N.C., 28607. To get involved, go online to www.samaritanspurse.org/occ or call (970-858-9873).

Thanks again to everyone who participated in this project. A simple gift, packed with love, can communicate hope and transform the lives of children worldwide!