Nearly one-quarter of all shoeboxes packed last year in Manitoba for Operation Christmas Child came from the southeast corner of the province. 

Samaritan's Purse Canada is reporting that 30,413 shoeboxes were filled last year by Manitoba residents. That includes 2,519 that were dropped off in Landmark, 2,415 that were dropped off in Blumenort, and 2,392 that were dropped off in Grunthal. 

Meanwhile, there were 425,209 shoeboxes that were packed in Canada last year and 11,330,126 filled globally. Samaritan's Purse says each shoebox gift is a tangible expression of God's love and shares the true meaning of Christmas with children, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease, and disaster.

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

"We are thrilled to see the enthusiastic participation of Canadians in Operation Christmas Child," says Kendra Shields, Operation Christmas Child's Canadian director. "It is very encouraging to know that so many generous people want to give hope and joy to children in need around the world."

Although drop-off locations for shoeboxes are closed until November, anyone can still pack one by visiting packabox.ca.

Here is the breakdown of shoeboxes collected per community:

  • Winnipeg 10,083
  • Winkler 5,224
  • Landmark 2,519
  • Blumenort 2,415
  • Grunthal 2,392
  • Brandon  2,108
  • Portage la Prairie 1,833
  • Carman 546
  • Selkirk 457
  • Killarney 414
  • Lac du Bonnet 335
  • Virden 319
  • Oakbank 277
  • Boissevain 242
  • The Pas 226
  • Roblin 225