Gift giving that brings joy to children at home and overseas

This Christmas, grandmother-of-seven, Christine Johnson, will be giving gifts that bring joy to people beyond the loved ones receiving them.

Instead of ordinary presents, Christine’s grandchildren, 12-year-old Michaela and 11-year-old Lachlan (pictured above), have asked Christine to donate Gifts for Good , to help children and their families in disadvantaged communities overseas.

Michaela and Lachlan chose two items each from this year’s ChildFund Gifts for Good catalogue , including mosquito nets to prevent children from contracting diseases such as malaria, and school supplies to help ensure vulnerable children could continue their education.

Lachlan also chose a dozen chickens , and Michaela a warm blanket and pillow .

Christine, a long-time ChildFund supporter, says Michaela and Lachlan have a strong social conscience and were enthusiastic about the idea of giving Gifts for Good this festive season.

“I’m so proud of them,” Christine says. “They really love doing things like that. They’re beautiful children and they’re very conscious of the environment and of others; they’re very empathetic with a lot of things going on in the world.

“They’re very aware about ways they can improve things in the world, so when I showed them the Gifts for Good catalogue they jumped at the idea.

“They were pleased about doing it.”