"I've gone through Christmas as a single mother and I've really struggled. I remember receiving a hamper from a local church one year when times were tough. It was so nice to know that people cared," she said.

Since then she's made 'giving back' a tradition: "I just want to share the love."

This year she's decided to help support two local single-parent families to have a merry Christmas, and has set up a giving tree in her store - Zen Health and Beauty.

"I'd love to help more, but we'll see how we go."

Kirstie said she's been blown away by the generosity of local businesses who have donated a swag of items including a ham, jewellery and pamper packages. But she's really in need of some more presents for the kids.

"Ideally I would love for each child to have two or three things each. We have a few things already like some sports stuff and a spiderman doona cover. But the more the merrier - even stuff for school would be handy," she said.

Neither family knows they are in line for this act of community kindness; the surprise will be kept until the week before Christmas when the donated treasures are delivered.

If you would like to donate you can place your items under the tree at 49 Bowra St, Nambucca Heads, or get in contact via Facebook or by calling 6568 7091.

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