Living the Calvary spirit of 'being for others', residents gave $600, the value of planned gifts, to causes supporting children and people living in poverty.

This year's recipients were the Fred Hollows Foundation, which helps restore sight and prevent avoidable blindness in developing countries and in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; and World Vision, which provides short-term and long-term assistance to children and families living in poverty.

It is not the first time residents of the Melbourne home decided to forgo a small gift they would normally receive from the home and instead support those in need.

Calvary Millward's Leisure and Activities Coordinator, Heather Van Rooyen, said a resident had put forward the idea to the home's residents' committee some years ago, and the tradition had grown from there.

The commitee determines each year if they want to give instead of receive, and who the recipients will be.

"Over the years, our residents have donated thousands of dollars to different charities and causes," said Heather.

"They've bought chickens, goats, water wells, vaccinations, even bicycles to help people on communities in need."

"I think many decide at this time in their lives, no one needs another trinket, and they prefer to support others."