People and churches all over our area are getting ready this week to help needy kids overseas have a Merry Christmas.

They're participating in the annual Operation Christmas Child, a program designed to send shoe boxes full of Christmas goodies to those kids.

It's done by the organization Samaritan's Purse, founded by evangelist Franklin Graham.

Participating churches say it's a great way to help needy kids all over the world.

"It's fantastic watching them dedicate their boxes, and pray that whatever child that gets that box is blessed by the Lord," said the Rev. Charles Davis, pastor of Northcrest Baptist Church.

Northcrest, located at 3412 North Hills Street in Meridian, is the local drop-off point for shoe boxes. You may bring them between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. through Friday, Nov. 16.