ISLE of Wight Rotary Clubs have launched their Christmas shoebox appeal.
The scheme delivers boxes filled with gifts to children living in poverty, in Albania, Montenegro, Moldova and Romania.
Sue Denham, of Vectis Sunrise Rotary Club, said: "For some of these children, it will be the first time they have ever received a personal present in their life, so it is really amazing."
Organisers hope to collect 2,500 boxes this year.
Island Rotary clubs are visiting schools to encourage children to fill boxes and decorate them with wrapping paper. Other organisations are providing collection points and leaflets with tips on putting packages together.
Collection points include the County Press (Newport), STA Sofas (Newport), Lloyds Bank (Newport and Ryde), Jewson (Newport and Sandown), IW Radio (Newport), all Co-op Funeralcare branches, Shorwell Post Office, Islandwide Carpet Warehouse (Ryde) and Busy Bee Garden Centre (Ryde).
Shoeboxes will need to be dropped off by November 5, when they will be shipped. Ventnor Rotary Club is co-ordinating this year's appeal. For details, call Julie Hoskyns on 01983 730332 or contact your local Rotary Club.