Ukraine
More than 7,700 shoebox gifts packed in the UK in 2025 are now bringing joy to children in Ukraine!
Location:
Eastern Europe, between Poland, Romania, and Moldova in the west and Russia in the east
Population:
35,661,826 with 12.3% under the age of 15 (source – CIA The World Factbook)
Flag:
We thank God for the thousands of children who have received shoeboxes here since Operation Christmas Child began outreach events. While we are not able to provide pictures or information on the specific child who received your individual shoebox, we hope you will be encouraged and inspired by the photos and stories below.
Children Receiving Shoebox Gifts in Ukraine
This girl’s delight was written all over her face as she unpacked her box full of treasures.
Excitement at an outreach event in Ukraine!
Our heart is that each child who receives a shoebox gift would experience God’s love.
Churches, schools, orphanages, and more partner with us to ensure the gifts reach children who need them most.
This teenager was thrilled to receive a gift for Christmas.
Please keep praying for the children of Ukraine who are still dealing with so many changes and disruptions due to the war.
“One of My Best Childhood Memories”
Inna was 6 years old when she received her shoebox. “My favourite gift was a lovely set of coloured crayons,” she said. “My family were not able to buy such things, and I was excited to use them.”
Years later, in 2022, she was forced to flee her home. “Never in my life could I have imagined that one day I would run away from war,” she shared.
After hearing that Samaritan’s Purse was helping Ukrainian families reach the UK, she remembered her shoebox, which had been sent from a family in England—and how it had inspired her to learn English and dream of visiting London.
Today, Inna now serves with the Operation Christmas Child volunteer team in the UK. “Receiving a shoebox remains one of my best childhood memories,” she told us.
“Thank you for packing shoebox gifts for children around the world. It is an incredible ministry that blesses children and has an impact on their future.”
A Little Girl’s Gratitude
Aline (aged 4) was forced to flee her home with her mum because of the war. When she returned to visit her dad half a year later, they were invited to a Christmas celebration. “I was very happy to get a gift box,” shared Aline, who was particularly delighted by the colouring pencils and markers that she received. “I am grateful to those who put together such a great gift box.”
Timothy’s Shoebox Story
“I am Timothy Babkov. I am 10 years old. Not long time ago, our family received terrible news that my father died in the war. He went to protect our land on the first day of the war. My mother, two sisters, brother, and I miss him very much. One day my friend invited me to a Christian club for teenagers at a nearby church. I liked the atmosphere, and they prayed for me. Then they gave me the gift box where I found interesting things: soccer ball, stationery supplies, clothing, and many other things. I was pleased even more because it was my birthday. Only God knew that I needed such a gift. I am very thankful to Him. I continue to visit Christian meetings to find out more about Him.”
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 get the chance 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 transforming lives around the world.
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
