MAKING a difference to people's lives is something that has always been close to Geoff O'Flanagan's heart.

Later this month he will be making a flying visit to bring joy to African orphans.

The 33-year-old civil servant will be taking about 200 shoeboxes filled with goodies to two orphanages just outside Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

He sets off on October 27 for the five-day, whistle-stop mission.

Geoff, who is married and lives at Valley Park, Chandler's Ford, heard about the orphanages through a work colleague.

He said: "Helping people and making a difference to their lives has always been an interest of mine. We have so much in this country that it does not take much to give something back."

Geoff's shoebox deliveries will be to the Stars for Jesus Boys Home and the New Hope Children's Centre.

Among the items in the shoeboxes will be everyday items that we sometimes take for granted, like socks, toothbrushes and toothpaste. There will also be some little boxes of make-up for the girls, plus toys.

The Stars for Jesus Boys Home was established in 1997 and aims to educate the boys in its care.

This will allow them to finally become self-sufficient by providing training and experiences they can use in later life.

Many of the boys have left the orphanage to become carpenters, mechanics and drivers. One boy has won a place at a prestigious Kenyan university.

Geoff said: "The work the orphanage conducts is all the more impressive and humbling when you realise that they are not funded, relying completely on the goodwill of others, both within Kenya and the international community.

The New Hope Children's Centre was set up in April 2000.

Geoff added: "The orphanage looks after many street children who can be found in every part of Kenya living in extreme poverty and for many, in life threatening conditions."