"It restores your faith in human nature when you see the ways people have come to the family's assistance."

The boys live with their grandmother, 72-year-old Carole Dunsdon, at Windermere Park.

Mrs Dunsdon described the community's response as unbelievable. The boys had received toys, bikes, cash and household goods.

"A fella came and put an airconditioner in for free," she said.

Some donations had arrived anonymously.

A fraternal organisation, the Masons, is paying for the boys' school expenses and a Morisset hairdresser cuts their hair for free.

Mrs Dunsdon was teaching the boys to pass on generosity.

"They had a Playstation donated, so they donated an old Xbox they weren't using to a neighbour with young children," she said.

"The lady burst into tears and said 'isn't that nice'."

Mrs Dunsdon said she received wonderful help from family and neighbours, but added that raising four boys was not easy.