You will bless a child in

El Salvador

Even though it is known as the “land of volcanoes” with more than 20 such peaks, El Salvador has the highest population density of the Central American countries. Its many citizens work primarily in the service industry or grow coffee for export. Samaritan’s Purse began distributing gift-filled shoeboxes there in 1997 and launched The Greatest Journey, our follow-up discipleship program, in this nation in 2009.

Read a Story from the Field

After receiving shoebox gifts, two brothers attended The Greatest Journey discipleship course at a local church. Kevin, the oldest, soon accepted Jesus as his Savior. The younger brother, Erick—though he was just 4 years old—was especially concerned that his parents attend church with him so they could also hear the Word of God. The brothers faithfully attended every single one of the 12 lessons and faithfully prayed for their parents at each one. Their prayers were answered when their parents, too, came to church and also gave their lives to Christ. As a result, the couple also chose to be united in marriage.

Pray for Your Shoebox Recipient

“Whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”—Matthew 21:22

Please don’t stop praying for the boy or girl that you first lifted up when you packed your shoebox. Continue to ask God to soften his or her heart to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, so that he or she will follow Him all the days of their life. Pray also for families and entire communities to be transformed as God’s love is shared through your simple gift.

The Greatest Journey

After your shoebox gift delights a boy or girl, you can give them the opportunity to participate in The Greatest Journey.

Taught by trained local teachers, this 12-lesson discipleship program shows children how to follow Christ and share Him with others. As boys and girls share the Scripture stories they learn in class, their friends and family come to faith—growing churches, starting new congregations, and transforming communities by the power of the Gospel.

Send a child on The Greatest Journey for just $6!

Record Where Your Shoebox Went

Our Follow Your Box Map is specifically designed for you to keep track over multiple years where your shoebox gifts have blessed children in need.

Consider displaying one in your church or home as a reminder to pray for the boys and girls who have been blessed by your generosity.