You can change a child's life overseas this Christmas with the gift of giving.
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Marie Beatty and John and Truedy Vine are calling on Milton-Ulladulla residents to donate to the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child.
At the end of August the trio begin preparing shoeboxes full of gifts that will be given to a child living in poverty.
Each has been looking "all year" round as well as receiving handmade gifts from local residents. Each shoebox includes something special, for school, personal hygiene, to love, wear, and play with. The boxes are separated into ages two to four, five to nine and 10 to 14.
Ms Beatty's example box was full to the brim with school books, homemade bags, toothbrushes, a teddy bear and a tennis ball.
"People make clothing for us, knitted woolen gifts," Ms Beatty said.
In the past many donations have been made anonymously, which the trio admire and appreciate.
"People donate so much through the community," Mr Vine said.
"We got a good response last year."
The shoeboxes are collected in 12 countries and distributed to more than 120 countries worldwide. More than 135 million boxes have been delivered since 1993. Each child receives just one box in their lifetime.
"Shoeboxes change a village. It's absolutely life-changing."
Mr Vine recalled a trip to Cambodia where children were learning English. One-by-one a child was shown how to use a tablet. By the time the teacher had reached the fifth person the first was giggling non-stop.
"These kids just lack opportunity," he said.
Almost 100,000 boxes were sent out of Sydney last year. Mrs Vine said people do not have to donate shoeboxes. People can sponsor a shoebox for $10.
Shoeboxes, items or donations can given to the trio at St Martin's Anglican Church, Ulladulla. Collections close at the end of October.
Phone Ms Beatty on 0419 223 281 for more information.