The warning follows the theft of two uniforms from the Salvation Army Employment Plus store in Bendigo last week.

The theft happened at night on May 7.A Salvation Army Employment Plus spokeswoman said community members should be aware of the theft when looking to donate money.

"Employment Plus employee jackets have a distinctive logo and are different from jackets Red Shield collectors will be wearing," she said.

"Obviously, we would ask people to keep an eye out for people attempting to collect money wearing these jackets, and to phone the police." Legitimate collectors will also be wearing clear ID tags.

The spokeswoman said the Red Shield Appeal was a great initiative for people to dig deep for those in need.

She said volunteers didn’t want people to not give this year, but rather to ensure they check the credentials of those collecting. More than 100,000 volunteers are expected to collect up to $68 million nationally at intersections and donation points over the weekend of May 24 and May 25.

Donations can also be made by visiting www.salvationarmy.org.au.

Anybo dy with information about the theft is urged to contact Bendigo police on 5448 1300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.