Spreading Christmas cheer with its toy appeal and food hampers are (from left) Ebbony Van Hamond, Rob Oosterhof and captain Angela Locke of Warragul Salvation Army.
More than 60 local children woke up to presents under the Christmas tree through the generosity of the West Gippsland community.
Warragul Salvation Army says increased donations to its annual toy appeal saw more local families doing it tough able to join the recipient list.
“People are just so generous,” said Warragul Salvation Army captain Angela Locke. “The generosity of the community I just find it unbelievable and heartwarming, and it allows us to give with a generous heart as well.”
Previously parents have been able to select one or maybe two toys per child, but this year it was extended out to five toys.
In addition, the initial list of 25 families was able to be extended out to 30 families, providing further Christmas cheer.
Last week the toys donated from local businesses, schools, daycare centres and via the Kmart Wishing tree Appeal were laid out on tables for parents to select. They included soft toys, scooters, balls, puzzles, dolls and cars, covering options for all age groups.
Angela thanked the local community for all donations, with several food hampers and supermarket vouchers also able to be distributed to those doing it tough.
