Operation Christmas Child is a project that delivers shoeboxes full of gifts to needy children around the world.

Pastor Dee Reynolds encouraged residents to get involved.

"The charity is a great chance to help children who don't have very much at all," she said.

"Just packing some simple things like a cuddly toy, soap, school supplies and a pair of inexpensive thongs can be life changing to a child who lives in abject poverty.

"The project is a great chance for families to come together to create a special gift for a child overseas, or for individuals to give to charity in a way that is very hands-on and personal, as the box they pack will reach an individual child.

"People are encouraged to write letters and Christmas cards and even include photos in their box, sometimes they get a letter back from the child who received the gift."

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Pastor Reynolds said although the project was a Christian run charity, anyone could participate.

"OCC is a Christian charity so it is spearheaded by the local churches, however individuals and families also pack boxes," she said.

"We have had some wonderfully generous donations to help with the cost of shipping the boxes and donations of items to go into the boxes.

"The friends of Gum San gave us a large amount of school supplies, hygiene items and other gifts this year that helped us to provide shoeboxes that will enable children to go to school.

"Churches in Ararat have been participating for over 15 years, one lady who participated this year told me she has packed a shoebox every year for the last 10 years.

"Anyone wanting to take part can contact me, I can give them a pre-printed box to pack at home or let them know which items would be helpful donations."

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Pastor Reynolds said 2021 was the last year Ararat Community Church would drive the project.

"Next year, our own church, Ararat Community Church, is giving the project to the Children's Church to lead," she said.

"We believe it helps our children to empathise and connect with other children from across the world, it also teaches them about generosity and gives them a chance to use their skills to help others."

Pastor Reynolds said Christmas preparations had begun at the Ararat Community Church.

"Christmas is a wonderful time of the year," she said.

"We will begin our Christmas themed Toddler Church and Children's Church sessions towards the end of November.

"We will also be inviting the community to our Christmas Service on Boxing Day."

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