The annual festive season charity provides an opportunity for people of all ages to help children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes.

In the Leeton area more than 230 boxes were prepared and collected last year, which is up from 198 boxes in 2008.

In southern NSW and the ACT more than 24,000 boxes were collected for the appeal last year.

Globally, an estimated 7.6 million shoe boxes were sent to children in 105 countries.

Operation Christmas Child Leeton co-ordinator Jenni Parrow thanked the community for its efforts.

"I would like to thank all of our new participants in the program and those who continue with it each year," she said.

"Hopefully this year we will again receive good support so we are able to help children in need.

"Even though it's just a drop in the ocean of what these children need, the gifts are definitely appreciated and useful."

Items that can be included in the shoeboxes include soft toys, carry bags, sunglasses, bangles, necklaces, craft kits, stickers, notes, photos, exercise books and stationery items, tennis balls, marbles and plenty more.

Mrs Parrow encouraged residents to keep supporting Operation Christmas Child.

"You can start collecting items now for this year's shoeboxes, whether it's just by putting something in the trolley every now and then or just keeping a general eye out for items," she said.

"We are also looking for anyone who would like to help with knitting and sewing to be sent to children in need."

Operation Christmas Child runs from May to October each year. For more information call 6953 5122.