The hardship families have endured through the COVID-19 pandemic has inspired additional support for the Salvation Army.
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Fairleys SUPA IGA Eaglehawk has been collecting donations of gifts and food in the hope of helping central Victorian families in need enjoy the festive season.
Store manager Joel King said some donations had already gone to the Salvation Army Bendigo Corps.
He was hopeful the store would be in a position to make a few more deliveries before December 23, the last drop-off date before Christmas.
"A big thanks to everyone who has already donated and those looking to do it," Mr King said.
A Christmas tree has been set up at the front of the store, which is where donations can be left.
Gifts can be suitable for children or adults.
Food donations can include seasonal items or pantry fillers with long expiry dates, which families might use for Christmas.
The Eaglehawk store isn't the only one involved in the appeal, with all Michael's IGA and Fairleys IGA stores getting behind the initiative.
"It is becoming increasingly clear many Australians are going to struggle to have even a modest celebration," a spokesperson for the stores said.
"Christmas is meant to be a time of joy for everyone, but for those doing it tough it can be heartbreaking and isolating.
"If everyone donated one little thing each we could all make a massive change in our community."
Donations can be made at the Fairleys SUPA IGA Eaglehawk during its trading hours.
The store is at 93 Victoria Street, Eaglehawk, and is open from 7:30am - 9pm, Monday to Saturday and from 8am - 9pm on Sundays.
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