“We saw the delight of the children who are looked after by their grandparents while their parents work,” said local organiser of the appeal Robyn Hicks.

“The grandparents were just so happy that the children received these gifts as they come from the poorer areas in the middle of Vietnam.”

Mrs Johnson also told the group about the other projects she had witnessed, including water purification and a health clinic, as well as the construction of schools and teacher education.

Last year the Orange branch of Samaritan’s Purse sent 1300 shoeboxes to children in underprivileged countries with the goal this year to move up to 1500 boxes.

The boxes, which are prepared in Orange, contain a range of items for the children including pencils, books, clothing, balls and other items for activities.

Mrs Hicks said the overall target for this year’s Samaritan’s Purse project in NSW was 370,000 shoeboxes.

Last year 11,200 children from 108 developing countries received the boxes.

Mrs Hicks said this year the boxes would be sent to children in South East Asia and the Pacific.

If you would like to become involved in this project call Mrs Hicks on 0427 653 431.