Unfortunately Christmas can be a lonely and financially challenging time for some people and the Salvation Army don’t want anyone to have to go without. 

Items such as gift cards, DVDs, books and sporting equipment are all popular items.

“We would particularly like to encourage people to donate gifts aimed at teenagers and parents as they always seem to miss out,” Orana Corps Salvation Army officer Captain David Sutcliffe said.

The assistance is a little different this year compared to previous years.

Donations of non perishable food items, together with new quality toys for the whole family can be dropped off at the local Salvo’s.

“What we’re asking from the community is not just toys but also non perishable food products, just to stretch out the help a little bit further,” Cpt Sutcliffe said.

Items can include cans of pastas, sauce and soup.

“Or Christmas food, so whether that be Christmas cake or pretzels.., just to help,” Cpt Sutcliffe said.

The local Salvation Army have already started collecting items for the appeal, and while Cpt Sutcliffe isn’t sure whether more people will need help this year, he believes things will start ramping up soon.

“Most people who are coming in at the moment are just struggling to make ends meet with anything,” he said.

“We’re getting a lot of requests for assistance with utility bills at the moment.

On top of supporting the local community, the Dubbo Salvo’s are also supporting Rural Chaplains with Christmas items.

“We’re helping out with gifts there where can,” he said.

Rural Chaplains have been providing assistance for the past two years across most of the state, especially in drought affected communities.

Cpt Sutcliffe said they are trying to create a safe space where people can come and really build community.

“That will be a big focus for us next year, but particularly in the lead up to Christmas,” he said.

The deadline for the toy and food appeal is December 10. Items can be dropped off to the Dubbo Salvation Army at 110 Gipps Street on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 9:30am and 1pm.