The Balkans
More than 56,000 shoebox gifts packed in the UK in 2024 are now bringing joy to children in the Balkans!
To the thousands who receive them, these gift-filled boxes are a powerful symbol of hope and love.
Due to ongoing political and religious sensitivities in some parts of the Balkans, it’s important we prioritise the safety of our partners operating in restricted areas. Therefore, we are unfortunately unable to disclose details about the specific country your shoebox was sent to. Wherever it’s landed, please know that the precious child who receives your gift will be truly blessed.
Below, we’ve shared some of our favourite videos, photos, and stories from the wider Balkans region. We pray it encourages your heart to see the difference that shoeboxes just like yours make.
Children Receiving Shoebox Gifts In The Balkans
This class were delighted to receive their shoebox gifts.
Every shoebox gift is a tangible expression of God's love.
These sweet girls enjoyed exploring their shoebox gifts together.
This little girl received a shoebox gift at an outreach event at a local school with the Roma community.
This girl loved her new teddy best of all!
These three were all smiles after receiving shoebox gifts!
A Family Feels Loved
“We met a mother with four small children,” shared one of our local partners. “The family live in poverty and were not expecting any presents for their kids. The children were so joyful when they saw the gifts. They were amazed that somebody remembered them. Receiving the gifts made them feel special and important. As well as toys and many interesting things the boxes were full of love!
The team were able to share the Gospel and let the families know that God cares for them and has not forgotten them.”
A Shoebox Brings Light
This young boy walks to and from school more than 7 miles each day, sometimes even having to walk home in the dark. He recently attended an outreach event held by a local church. Here he received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift and inside he found a new torch! Now he uses it to help him walk home safely.
A Dream Come True
This sweet little girl had been dreaming of owning her own doll for three years. She had seen dolls at the local market, but her mother was not able to buy one for her. She was delighted to discover a new pink doll inside her shoebox, along with many other special gifts.
What Happens After the Shoebox?
After receiving their shoebox gift, children can enrol in The Greatest Journey—12 fun and interactive Bible lessons, where they have the opportunity to discover who Jesus is, begin their journey of faith, and receive a New Testament in their own language. Watch the video below to see how The Greatest Journey is changing lives in Mongolia.
Note: The Greatest Journey is offered free of charge, without obligation, and with the consent of the child’s parent or guardian.
Learn More About The Greatest Journey
