On Sunday, members of the United Presbyterian Church of Newton dropped off 133 gift boxes to kick off this year’s Operation Christmas Child, a Samaritan’s Purse relief project that delivers shoeboxes full of gifts to needy children around the globe.

Operation Christmas Child is open to any church, civic group or interested individuals. The Newton drop off location is Grace Church, 1620 N. 11th Ave. E. National collection week began Monday and runs through Monday, Nov. 19th. Hours are 9 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information, contact Timothy Whaley at (641) 275-3022.