500 Shoeboxes Filled for Operation Christmas Child

For the seventh year in a row, Maleno successfully packed shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.  The goal was doubled from last year's 250 shoeboxes to 500 filled shoeboxes in 2021.

Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization. Their mission is to provide local partners around the world with shoeboxes filled with small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies as a means of reaching out to children in their own communities. These simple gifts are shipped outside the United States to children affected by war, poverty, natural disaster, famine, and disease; and to children living on Native American reservations in the U.S.

Many hours of effort go into an initiative of this size. "We couldn't do it without the help and support of our staff, family, friends, and customers," states Natalie Washburn, Owner/Broker at Maleno Real Estate. "Monetary and gift donations are a critical beginning. The amount of time and effort by everyone involved cannot be overstated!  We order and assemble the shoeboxes, purchase and sort the items, pack the shoeboxes, and coordinate delivery to our drop-off location at First Alliance Church."

Each year, Maleno reaches out to their contacts asking for donations. Time and time again, they are able to meet their goals due to the strong, multi-generational relationships they have built over their 45+ years in business. "Relationships are one of the cornerstones of our business," said Washburn. "From children to seniors, it's gratifying to see people in our Erie community getting involved and packing shoeboxes."

In order to keep everyone safe during COVID-19, the sorting and packing was done in shifts. Maleno coordinated staggered times to have families working together separately. 

National collection week is November 15 - 21, 2021 this year.