This month, multiple locations in the Niles area will serve as collection sites for Operation Christmas Child — the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind.

The annual Samaritan’s Purse project is a favorite of many area residents, families, churches and groups who spread joy to millions of children around the world by filling shoeboxes with a “Wow!” item — like a doll or soccer ball — other fun toys, school supplies, hygiene items and notes of encouragement.

“Through the simple act of filling a shoebox, someone in Niles can make a tangible difference in the life of a child halfway around the world. Anyone can participate and bring joy to a child facing difficult circumstances,” said Niles volunteer Bill Burger.

During National Collection Week, Nov. 16 to 23, local residents hope to contribute more than 11,950 gift-filled shoeboxes to the 2015 global goal of reaching 11 million children in need.

Below is a list of location sites in Niles and Cassopolis:

Niles

Niles Seventh-Day Adventist School, 110 N. Fairview Ave., Niles

Wednesday, Nov. 18 — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 19 — 5-7 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 20 — 1-3 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 21 — 5-7 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 22 — 1-5 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 23 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cassopolis

Penn Friends Community Church, 19107 Quaker St., Cassopolis

Wednesday, Nov. 18: 5-7 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 19: 5-7 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 20: 4-6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 21: 10 a.m. to noon

Sunday, Nov. 22: 1-4 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 23: 9 a.m. to noon