Its Share Christmas campaign is seeking $3.7 million to help 9000 disadvantaged children access learning programs including reading improvement.

The Smith Family NSW/ACT general manager Steve Macready said the charity helped 300 children in Orange with the programs.

He said assisting children with education in primary school gave them a better chance at life.

“We find the early intervention approach helps the child get the most of out their education,” he said.

“Children living in poverty fall behind.”

He said the charity was also seeking donations to provide a Christmas gift pack to needy children.

“We’ve had a 58 per cent increase in demand for Christmas packs in NSW this year,” he said.

The Smith Family chief executive officer Dr Lisa O’Brien said Christmas giving was key part of the charity’s history.

“The Smith Family was started by a group of businessmen giving gifts to orphaned children on Christmas Eve,” she said.

Dr O’Brien said Christmas was particularly tough for needy families.

“Sadly, thousands of Australian kids won’t receive a gift this Christmas because their families can’t afford it,” she said.

Go to www.thesmithfamily.com.au or call 1800 024 069 to make a donation.