Since its inception, the Bendigo Community and Neighbourhood Houses Christmas Toy Drive, has brought joy and relief to families facing financial hardship. By contributing toys and gifts this Christmas, we can ensure that every child and family can celebrate the festive season with joy, connection, and a sense of belonging. We spoke to Tracey Moss from Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat Community Housing about the impact this initiative has had on those who use these services;

Tell us about the Community Toy Drive
The Community Toy Drive, established several years ago, provides vital support to disadvantaged and marginalized families, ensuring they can celebrate Christmas without financial strain. It began with the unwavering generosity of the citizens of Greater Bendigo, who came together to donate and assist families, especially those with children, facing tough times. The initiative also extends its reach to support marginalized citizens, including refugees, migrants, and those new to Bendigo.

How has the Toy Drive impacted the broader community?
The Community Toy Drive goes beyond gift-giving, fostering connections through the vital work of Neighbourhood and Community Houses. These spaces provide year-round support to disadvantaged individuals and volunteers by offering activities, programs, and meals that build friendships, teamwork, and inclusion. Programs like Tai Chi, art classes, playgroups, and community gardens offer opportunities for connection, while pre-accredited courses such as Barista training, Basic Horticulture, and digital literacy prepare individuals for future opportunities. Importantly, these initiatives ensure no one falls through the cracks, connecting those in need with support networks. By sharing gifts with those already involved, the Toy Drive enables individuals to participate in family and community gatherings, reducing isolation and loneliness. These efforts provide mutual benefits for individuals, the Community Houses, and the broader community, fostering a stronger and more connected Bendigo

"These initiatives ensure no one falls through the cracks, connecting those in need with support networks."

What is the demand for donations at Christmas?
Never would we have imagined the seriousness or extent of the cost of living crisis after COVID-19.  It’s astonishing to think that was almost 5 years ago and we are still witnessing long-term hardship every single day, like never before. There is never a more important time for donations than throughout this time of year. 

How does it bring cheer to kids?
Both the Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat Community Houses hold Community Christmas parties, where donations from the Toyworld Toy Drive are distributed. These events include gift-giving, food (both healthy options and sweets), music, and, of course, a visit from Santa to bring smiles to faces—young and old alike.

• Eaglehawk Community Christmas Party: Saturday, 7th November, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM

• Kangaroo Flat Community Christmas Party: Saturday, 14th November, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Eaglehawk Community Christmas Lunch: Tuesday, 10th November, 12:00 PM (bookings encouraged, but walk-ins welcome)

These events alone will welcome around 800 guests. We also understand that not everyone is able to attend community gatherings, so we will continue to distribute gifts throughout December and January.

Why is it important for people to get involved in the Christmas Community Toy Drive?
The smiles we see and the joy you help to bring by donating your gift are not forgotten by any recipient.  We see proof of this often when those same people turn up, often years later, offering their support, understanding support understanding these acts of kindness absolutely means the difference between our community being connected or being alone. What are some gift ideas people can donate? • Soft toys • Remote controlled cars • Dolls • Skateboards, cricket and totem tennis sets • Board games

How can people get involved, where are the drop-off locations?
You can drop off donations at the following locations (please call for times and details):

• Eaglehawk, Kangaroo Flat, Long Gully, Bendigo, Marong & Heathcote Neighbourhood & Community Houses

• McKean McGregor

• Toyworld Bendigo (open 7 days)

From soft toys to skateboards, every donation helps create lasting memories for children and families in our community. Drop off your donation today to ensure every child and family can celebrate the festive season with joy. Your support truly makes a difference this Christmas. Our heartfelt thank you to the citizens of Greater Bendigo for supporting the Toyworld Community Toy Drive.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”  - Helen Keller Author, Disability Rights Advocate and Lecturer