Spreading Christmas Joy Each Year to Those Less Fortunate 

  1.Start with a NEW zippered backpack - No used items please

  2. Have a color-coded band attached to the top.

      PLEASE NOTE:

      Pre-printed, color-coded bands can be requested from Mississippi River Ministry for labeling backpacks.

         marshallingle@bellsouth.net

        AGE GUIDE FOR EACH GENDER:

Ages 2-3

Ages 4-7

Ages 8-10

Ages 11-14

Ages 15-17

   3. Pray specifically for the child receiving your backpack.

   4. Please put a copy of The Christmas Story in the backpack.

GIFT SUGGESTIONS

1.  HYGIENE ITEMS:(At least 2 items)Toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (boxed and in plastic bag), shampoo (securely sealed in a plastic bag), hairbrush, comb, washcloth, ponytail holders, hair clips, etc.

2.  TOYS: (At least 1 item) Small cars, dolls, stuffed animals, small music instruments, yo-yos, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, toys that light up or make noise ( include extra batteries), Slinky, Frisbee, card games such as Old Maid, Go fish, UNO, etc.

3.  OTHER: At least 2 items) Children's bible or Teen Bible, socks, sunglasses, toy jewelry, watches flashlights (with extra batteries), age-appropriate Christian books, etc.

4.  FOOD: (At least 2 items)  Use individual food items (cans need to be pop-top for easy opening) (NO plastic containers).  Do Not Include any items containing nuts.  Suggested items include breakfast bars, crackers (cheese), small individual meats, , soups, fruits, Pop Tarts are a favorite, hard candy ( no chocolate), lollipops, mints, gum, etc.

5.  CLOTHING: (At least 2 items)  T-shirts, underwear, socks, warm hat, gloves, scarf, ball cap, fleece pullover, warm outerwear.

6.  SCHOOL SUPPLIES: School supplies are welcome, but not all sites need school supplies.  If you are partnering with a site please check with them regarding school supplies and what type of school supplies are needed.  Please use age-appropriate school supplies.

7.  IDEAS FOR OLDER CHILDREN:

GIRLS : lip gloss, costume jewelry, fashion scarves, friendship bracelets, craft kits, journals, fun socks and slippers, doodle books, etc.
BOYS: LEGOS, card games, hand-held electronic games, basketball, football, air pump, Nerf football.                                                 

Please do not include any food items that are perishable or can be easily crushed or opened while in transit.             
         Please do not include any knives.                                                               

PLEASE MAKE SURE BACKPACK IS FULL

Any questions call Marshall 318-315-0743 or Janell 318-315-0744