Members are filling shoe-boxes with gifts for children up to 14-years-old as part of the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child.

“A neighbour introduced me to the Christmas Box Appeal last year but it was too late to involve the church,” organiser Rose Smith said.

With 100 boxes to fill this year the congregation joined in.

People have knitted beanies, scarves and toys while others have made drawstring bags, shorts, tops and dresses.

Toys, soaps, washers, toothbrushes and hair care products have also been purchased and donated for the boxes.

The appeal has been embraced by the church community this year with a generous response to donated items and funds.

It became bigger when Karuah residents decided to become involved.

Families have asked for boxes so that their children can be involved and St Brigid’s Church in Bulahdelah has also taken a couple of boxes.

“What started as doing something for others has resulted in a rich, community building experience which we hope will be an annual event,” Mrs Smith said.

The shoe boxes will be sent to children living in poverty.

“We have had reports back from previous years that the children are just ecstatic (when they receive their gift),” Denise Darlington said.

With items to fill many of the boxes, organisers are looking for others to donate funds to cover postage costs.

Each box costs between $8 and $10 to send overseas and with 100 boxes, organisers need to raise $1000.

Anyone interested in filling a box or making a donation towards postage of the boxes phone Rose Smith on 4997 5391.