The Salvation Army is ubiquitous at Christmas when it comes to helping families out.

This year is no different and the Bairnsdale branch of the Salvation Army has conducted its usual charitable drive to make sure no family is without presents to give their children during the festive season.

Generous locals have opened their hearts to ensure families who are in need don’t go without. All toys are donated through the annual Toy Run or the Kmart Wishing Tree.

Held on the second Sunday of December, bikers are dispatched to go and collect the toys from Bruthen, Nowa Nowa and Lakes Entrance.

More than 130 motorbike riders participated this year and the presents have been housed in an empty shop in Eastwood from where they were distributed to families in need. The Salvation Army says those struggling with drought, unemployment and homelessness registered to receive Christmas gifts.

“We had 107 people register with us, which was down from our usual 150 on previous years,” Captain David Jones said.

“It’s a good thing in one sense because it means people are travelling okay,” Cpt Jones said.

IMAGE: Mary Hood (centre), of Bairnsdale, is gifted toys from Captain Claire Jones, of the Salvation Army, and Rowan Dubbeld, dressed as Panda, to give to her family at Christmas. K1541-2730