Bikers dig deep

CHRISTMAS will be that little bit brighter for many children across the district this year thanks to the generosity of a group of motorcycle riders.

By Staff Writer

Santa with his helper, Jeff.

The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Appeal motorcycle toy run was once again a huge success, with hundreds of quality toys donated.

Sally Allchin from The Salvation Army said she was once again absolutely humbled by the generosity shown by riders and the general public.

This Christmas more than 300 families will be assisted with gift vouchers and toys for children as a result of the donations.

“The generosity of people, especially at Christmas time, always humbles me. It’s absolutely amazing the quality and quantity of toys donated,” Ms Allchin said.

“And all of these donations will go directly to local families across the district in time for Christmas.

“Families who previously applied for assistance and were successful, recently received letters inviting them to visit our Mortlake Road premises this week to collect their grocery gift card and to choose some toys for their children.”

Ms Allchin said the support from last weekend’s toy run was exceptional.

“In times of need, people really stand up to help others and that’s extremely heart-warming,” she said.

“We have an amazing team here at The Salvation Army, both in Warrnambool and Hamilton, and they all work hard to ensure families receive what they need.

“There are several tiers of those needing help – people paying off mortgages who are struggling, people who can afford to live but have trimmed their budget, those living on already trimmed budgets, and those on Centrelink benefits.”

But no matter what their current circumstances may be, families and individuals in need of assistance are always welcome at ‘the Salvos’ according to Ms Allchin.

“We’re here to help and we pride ourselves on the range of services we offer the community,” she said.

“But we can only do this, and continue to do this, through the generosity of donors such as those involved in last weekend’s toy run. We’re extremely grateful.”