Not only is the festive spirit spreading across the Bathurst region, but co-ordinator Lisa Limbrick says a range of new people and groups are taking part.

Held annually, the operation distributes millions of gifts worldwide to children living in poverty, as refugees and those affected by a natural disaster.

The annual appeal asks members of the public to provide six simple items to complete each shoebox full of gifts.

Bathurst woman Kim Rae is among those who have put together shoeboxes of gifts for the first time.

“It was an easy way to help children in need,” she said.

“In the end I had more gifts than what would fit in the box.”

Ms Rae and her friend Pam Rameka have contributed four boxes full of gifts for this year’s operation.

Ms Limbrick said she has had such a rush on requests for shoeboxes that she is hopeful of reaching a total of 2000 boxes packed in Bathurst.

Last year 1200 shoeboxes of gifts were packed in Bathurst.

Ms Limbrick said it was not too late to take part and people have until October 31 to return their filled shoeboxes.

“Something to love, something for school, something to play with, something special, something to wear and a personal hygiene item,” she said of items to pack in the shoeboxes.

Mrs Limbrick said there are a number of new schools, community organisations and churches taking part this year and she has welcomed others to join in.

“Feedback to me has been positive and encouraging,” she said.

“People love to tell me about their experience packing their shoebox and what they put in in.”

Ms Limbrick suggested it could also be a fun school holiday activity for people with children.

“A number of people are involving their children in filling shoeboxes,” she said. 

“It can lead to some great discussions and develop a sense of empathy in kids.”

To get involved in this year’s Operation Christmas Child contact Lisa Limbrick on 0402 323 733 or Faye Taylor on 0418 167 958.