Hear from Michael Ushindi, Because International’s programs support intern, about his experience receiving Christmas shoeboxes as a child in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

My name is Michael Ushindi, and I’m from the Democrat ic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Central Africa. I was born and grew up in a small town called Bukavu in the eastern part of the DRC. Being a pastor’s kid, I spent a lot of time at church, participating in events and attending Sunday school. I have five siblings—four sisters and a brother. My parents ensured we had the best education by sending us to the top schools in town, for which I am grateful. 

Christmas was the highlight of the year for us for quite some time. It wasn't just the school break or the family gatherings with our cousins that made it special, but the excitement of receiving Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes, which happened several years in a row. 

Each box contained different items, and in our family, it was a tradition to wait until evening, after our family gathering, to open them. It was incredibly tempting to see my friends opening their gifts right away while I had to wait.

In the evening, my siblings and I would open our boxes together and start trading items based on size or preference. Sometimes, I received a pink notebook and traded it with my sister for a set of marbles. The boxes contained a wonderful variety of items: toys, dolls, marbles, shirts, socks, shoes, shorts, balls (football, tennis, baseball, etc.), markers, toothbrushes, pens, pencils, notebooks, books, and more.

In my experience, every item in the box was exciting and useful. Among the most enjoyable items were board games and puzzles, which provided fun family activities. 

One item I never received in my boxes that would have been incredibly useful is The Shoe That Grows. Many families faced issues with shoe sizing and often had to exchange them for something else. Finding the right shoe size can be difficult, but because it can expand up to five sizes, The Shoe That Grows resolves this problem for many children.

To those packing shoeboxes each year, I offer my heartfelt thanks and encouragement. Your generosity brings immense joy and creates lasting memories for children. Your efforts make a difference, and I hope you continue to spread love and joy through these thoughtful gifts.

Learn more about Christmas shoeboxes and why you should include The Shoe That Grows as your WOW item—offering foot protection to children for several years as they grow. If you’re ready, you can place an order below.