Staff and students at CQUniversity's English Language Centre have gotten into the spirit of Christmas by giving to the less fortunate through the 'Adopt a Family' program.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Administration Officer Tracey Daffey organised a ‘giving back' charity event where teachers and students at the Language Centre and International Department contributed gifts to local Rockhampton families who cannot afford a proper Christmas.

CQUniversity's English Learning Centre and International students donate to needy families for Christmas.Senior Teacher Peter Morcom said it was the first time in a number of years that the Language Centre had donated to a cause like this and items that had been donated included children's books and games, along with Christmas food.

"The students really got into the spirit of the event and appreciated the chance to give to those less fortunate than themselves," Peter said.

"The way the program works is that a number of recognised aid organisations including Uniting Care, Lifeline, the Salvation Army and St Vincent De Paul have a register of families in need. We choose one of those families from the list to give presents to and those gifts will be delivered to the families by the organisation."

The 'Adopt a Family' program is an annual program run by the Uniting Church, Anglicare and The Salvation Army in Rockhampton.