By Gil Diaz, News Channel 3 Reporter
gdiaz@kesq.com

PALM DESERT - So far, so good for Leilani Vail.

She has the supplies and plenty of shoeboxes.

"Every box is a treasure for some little kid," she says.

Inside each box are gifts that kids in disadvantaged countries will love. Leilani says those kids are in dire need of the basics, such as glue sticks, jump ropes, crayons, and candy.

It is called "Operation Christmas Child." It began in 1993, and so far, 69 million shoeboxes have been distributed.

"I'm not a big traveler," says volunteer Diana Suchey.  "But yet, I can reach the world and help the kids worldwide just by packing one shoebox."

The project began this week at the Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church on Highway 74.

It ends on Monday night.

On Tuesday morning, the truck is headed to Tustin --- the headquarters --- where they hope to collect about 400,000 more shoeboxes. From there, they will be shipped to 100 countries.

They hope to give out 8.2 million boxes this season

Organizers are aware these are tough times. They are praying for more shoeboxes and more volunteers.

People who donate shoeboxes and pay for the $7 shipping cost will get to track where their packages are delivered.