Shepherd's Heart 10/30/26
Gifts of Impact 2026
Sharing God’s Love Near and Far!
As I think about the upcoming Christmas season, I’m reminded that some of the most meaningful gifts are those that help someone feel seen, remembered, and loved. That is the heart of Gifts of Impact, and I would love for you to be part of it this year!
Imagine a child opening a shoebox filled with surprises. A family receiving everyday essentials when money is tight. An isolated senior or a child living in foster care discovering that someone remembered their Christmas wish. Each gift carries a simple, powerful message: You matter. You are loved. You are not alone.
This truly is one of my favorite times of year. It's a joy and privilege to connect our Good Shepherd family with opportunities to care for others. When we deliver the gifts and practical supplies you have so thoughtfully chosen, I get to see your generosity become a tangible expression of God’s love. The smiles are contagious, and I wish each of you could be there to see the difference your kindness makes.
Here are just a few of the ways you can make an impact:
Children around the world will receive shoebox gifts through Operation Christmas Child, bringing joy and opening doors to share the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. The shoeboxes are already here, so be sure to pick one up before they’re gone!
Families served by Bridge Communities will receive essential household supplies, helping ease the burden of everyday expenses.
Residents at the DuPage Care Center, some as old as 103, will have their holiday wishes fulfilled through thoughtful, practical, and personal gifts.
Children in foster care will receive gifts that bring the delight of opening something chosen especially for them.
Explore all Gifts of Impact opportunities and collection dates here.
Perhaps you’ll fill a shoebox with your children or grandchildren, choose a Christmas wish to fulfill, or shop for household supplies with a friend. As you explore the opportunities, I invite you to prayerfully consider where God might be nudging you to take part. My hope is that you’ll find something that touches your heart and make it part of your Christmas celebrations. If you'd like to connect about any of these opportunities and ways to serve all year long, I'd love to connect with you!
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Thank you for your caring hearts and for the many ways you help our neighbors near and far experience God’s love.
With gratitude and joy,
Jeannine Allen
Missional Engagement Executive Minister
Imagine a child opening a shoebox filled with surprises. A family receiving everyday essentials when money is tight. An isolated senior or a child living in foster care discovering that someone remembered their Christmas wish. Each gift carries a simple, powerful message: You matter. You are loved. You are not alone.
This truly is one of my favorite times of year. It's a joy and privilege to connect our Good Shepherd family with opportunities to care for others. When we deliver the gifts and practical supplies you have so thoughtfully chosen, I get to see your generosity become a tangible expression of God’s love. The smiles are contagious, and I wish each of you could be there to see the difference your kindness makes.
Here are just a few of the ways you can make an impact:
Children around the world will receive shoebox gifts through Operation Christmas Child, bringing joy and opening doors to share the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. The shoeboxes are already here, so be sure to pick one up before they’re gone!
Families served by Bridge Communities will receive essential household supplies, helping ease the burden of everyday expenses.
Residents at the DuPage Care Center, some as old as 103, will have their holiday wishes fulfilled through thoughtful, practical, and personal gifts.
Children in foster care will receive gifts that bring the delight of opening something chosen especially for them.
Explore all Gifts of Impact opportunities and collection dates here.
Perhaps you’ll fill a shoebox with your children or grandchildren, choose a Christmas wish to fulfill, or shop for household supplies with a friend. As you explore the opportunities, I invite you to prayerfully consider where God might be nudging you to take part. My hope is that you’ll find something that touches your heart and make it part of your Christmas celebrations. If you'd like to connect about any of these opportunities and ways to serve all year long, I'd love to connect with you!
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Thank you for your caring hearts and for the many ways you help our neighbors near and far experience God’s love.
With gratitude and joy,
Jeannine Allen
Missional Engagement Executive Minister