Share the Dignity's annual drive - It's in the Bag - started on Friday and would run through to November 29.

The campaign encourages people to donate a handbag filled with essential toiletries for vulnerable women and girls in the region.

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Bendigo Community Health Services community engagement manager Rod Case said the provider was happy to facilitate the initiative.

"The handbags and the products within make such a huge difference for our clients most in need," Mr Case said.

"The products and gifts are important because in many cases our clients are struggling to find the money to buy essential items such as personal hygiene and beauty products.

"But the real value sits in the gift itself - that someone cares enough to go out of their way to support a stranger in need. The impact that has on the person receiving the handbag - you can't put a price on that."

Share the Dignity's Loddon Murray regional leader Lauren Read said in Bendigo alone, the service was after 317 handbags, 170 teen backpacks, and 85 mum and bub bags.

"These bags are a very practical way to help someone in need, and will not only give them immediate assistance, but also dignity and hope during an incredibly challenging time," she said.

Read more: Share the Dignity supporting Bendigo women who are homeless, disadvantaged

"A bag can be new or in excellent pre-loved condition, and must include the basic necessities of shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, pads, and tampons.

"Our local volunteers will collect your donations, check for quality, and then deliver the completed bags to local service providers.

"We understand that not everyone can donate a completed bag, so we would also appreciate loose essential items or empty bags to be donated."

Mr Case said for many women, these bags could be the only Christmas gifts they received.

"There are tears from the clients in most cases because that's what this means to them," he said.

"Given the year we've had, we suspect the need for donations and kindness is going to be even greater this Christmas."

Ms Read said residents could donate bags and items at the Kangaroo Flat and Epsom Bunnings stores from November 20-29.

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