Aussie Helpers launched the 'Make a Farmer's Christmas Special' appeal in mid-November aiming to put together 500 hampers. Halfway through the campaign, kind-hearted donors from around the world had contributed more than 1000 hampers.

Aussie Helpers volunteers are now over-run in the rush to pack and deliver hampers to needy farming families, by Christmas Eve.

Instead of hampers, the charity is now asking Australia to dig deep and donate a Visa gift card.

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Aussie Helpers chief executive Tash Kocks said a Visa gift card would give a struggling family help to buy food, toys and farming supplies such as stock feed.

"I want to stress to people that they can still donate by getting online and choosing a Visa gift card to help desperate farmers purchase the essentials they need.

"We hope the cards will be spent in local communities, helping to spread some Christmas cheer to regional businesses too.

"This crippling drought has had a profound impact on farming families across the country and there is no relief on the horizon.

"Let's dig deep this festive season and help us brighten Christmas for those who really need it."

Christmas Visa cards of $50, $100 and $500 for farmers can be purchased at aussiehelpers.org.au/christmasappeal.