Student Council members are trying to spread joy and give back to children around the world by participating in Operation Christmas Child, a project by the international organization Samaritan’s Purse.

“I wanted to balance the community projects we do between our local Buffalo community and the broader community,” Student Council sponsor Melonie Menefee said. “I thought it would be fun for us to be able to do something that was an outreach around the globe, and I think it’s a good chance for us to realize that our little corner of Texas is not the only place in the world where people exist and have problems and struggles.”

Members will bring toys, crafts, and necessities to fill up shoe boxes to be delivered to children all around the globe at Christmas time. Principal Corey Hickerson will drop off the donations later this week.

“I felt so grateful when I heard we were doing this because it gave me the chance to give back to kids across the world,” freshman Abby Brewer said. “It really made me think of all the blessings I have.”

Although Student Council will be unable to choose which country their gifts and donations go to, they will be able to track the packages. Not only this, but Menefee will include a note and the school’s address in each box so that, if they are able, the children can write back.

“I hope that the kids will see that we are trying to help them have the best Christmas ever, and I hope they write us back so we know just how much they love getting gifts from us,” sophomore Emma Adams said. “It will definitely make my heart happy.”

Students in Student Council will need to bring all of their items to Menefee by Monday, Nov. 18. They plan to fill up a total of five shoe boxes.

“When Mrs. Menefee was telling us about Operation Christmas Child, I thought it was a pretty cool thing to be a part of,” junior Kaline Martinez said. “It’s definitely different from what we’ve done in the past, and I’m really glad I get to give gifts and presents to people.”