Neighbor Spotlight: Susan Woodward Spreads Christmas Joy Around the World
Neighbor Spotlight: Susan Woodward Spreads Christmas Joy Around the World
Submitted by: Sandra Viola
In a cozy corner of our Williston Park community, one woman has quietly been making a global impact for more than two decades. Each holiday season, Susan Woodward transforms her home into a cheerful hub of giving — collecting, packing, and preparing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse that delivers gifts and hope to children in need across the world.
For over 20 years, Susan has faithfully led this effort, rallying friends, family, and neighbors to join her mission. What began as a small personal project has grown into a beloved local tradition. Each year, Susan collects between 75 and 100 shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and personal care items — small treasures that bring big smiles to children who might otherwise receive nothing for Christmas.
“It’s amazing to think how something so simple can mean so much,” Susan said with a warm smile. “These boxes aren’t just gifts — they’re messages of love. Every single one carries hope.”
The process begins months before December. Susan starts gathering supplies early, keeping an eye out for deals and donations throughout the year. Her dining room table often becomes a staging area lined with crayons, toothbrushes, dolls, and soccer balls. She carefully organizes packing parties where volunteers of all ages come together to fill the boxes with care — and a bit of Christmas cheer.
“She’s incredible,” said one neighbor who’s been part of the effort for years. “Susan’s enthusiasm is contagious. She makes it easy for everyone to want to get involved.”
Each completed shoebox is eventually shipped overseas through Samaritan’s Purse, reaching children in countries around the globe. These gifts often go to remote areas affected by poverty, conflict, or disaster. For many recipients, it’s the first gift they’ve ever received.
But for Susan, it’s about more than just the presents — it’s about connection. “When I see the photos of those smiling faces, it reminds me that kindness crosses oceans,” she said. “It reminds us all that we can make a difference, even from our own little town.”
Over the years, Susan’s dedication has inspired others to start their own packing efforts, multiplying the impact far beyond her home. Though she’s quick to give credit to her helpers, those who know her best say her commitment and heart are what keep the tradition alive.
As the holidays draw near once again, Susan is already organizing this year’s collection — and, as always, inviting others to join in.
“It’s simple,” she says. “If we each give a little, together we can give a lot.”
Thanks to Susan Woodward’s leadership and generosity, hundreds of children across the world will experience a little Christmas magic — one shoebox at a time!
