Big W, Newcastle Permanent, The Smith Family, The Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul and Kmart are all among those to have launched a Christmas Appeal.

Over Christmas the Salvation Army teams will distribute more than 30,000 hampers and vouchers to those in need, give out more than $1.3 million worth of gifts and toys and support more than 50,000 struggling families.

Dubbo residents can help out by donating money or toys. They can also put a hand up to be a Salvos volunteer.

Big W stores are aiming to collectively raise $250,000 for children's hospitals this year. The money raised from the community will be matched by the store.

Big W is also encouraging people to Bring on the Love this Christmas by adding a heart to their festive decorations. The hope is to remind people they are loved this Christmas, even if they're apart from family.

Macquarie Credit Union and Newcastle Permanent are both joining with The Salvation Army to collect presents for kid and teenagers through their annual Toy Drive appeal. The branches are collection points for toys and gifts.

The gifts will then be distributed by the Salvation Army to families in need.

Now in its 33^rd year, Kmart has already launched its Wishing Tree Appeal.

Presents can be dropped off to the Dubbo store. All donations made until Christmas Eve will help the Salvation Army provide support to families who are doing it tough.

St Vincent de Paul is also hoping to raise money for those who are doing it tough. Donations can be made through the website.

Locally, St Vincent de Paul has also been collecting Christmas hampers which will be delivered later in the month.

In addition to its appeal for monetary donations, The Smith Family is encouraging the community to donate to its Toy and Book Appeal, which will help provide nearly 30,000 people with gifts for Christmas as part of the Learning for Life program.