Sue Reedy, volunteer of Operation Christmas Child in Crookwell, said the Christmas spirit was alive.   

Over the next month, Operation Christmas Child will reach 300,000 children, “[it is] a free gift to children who live in difficult circumstances,” Roz Trestrail, of Samaritan’s Purse, said. 

“The final number will be available in the near future,” Ms Trestrail said.

Mrs Reedy estimated that Crookwell would have contributed around 1000 boxes in the first five years, and since then doubled that number. 

This could not have been achieved without the community’s generosity, she said.

"It is very much a community event that involves the churches, schools, businesses and both groups and individuals.

"They all support it in various ways, people are very generous with their sewing and donations of money and items."

People contributed; “something to wear, something to love, something for school, something for hygiene, something to play with.”

The items 'Operation Christmas Child' has received include home-made dresses, hats, library bags, pencil bags, teddy bears, soap bags, skirts and beanies. 

Some of these have been crafted by the residents of Viewhaven who used skills mastered over a lifetime.

"Out came wool, knitting needles, crochet hooks, scissors, pins, needles, elastics, fabrics, even the overlocker," said Debbie Lewis.

Nineteen residents have been involved, aged between 70 and 98.

They overcame physical barriers to complete the work.

It has given them a sense of purpose.

The project has allowed them to join people around the world who are also working on it, she added.

“Operation Christmas Child would like to thank everyone in the town of Crookwell who contributed to the shoe box collection this year. 

“Whether you gave items, knitted, sewed or packed a whole shoe box you have helped bring good news and great joy to a child in need. Samaritan’s Purse wishes you a safe and joyous Christmas,” Ms Trestrail said.