However, as it always does, the Benalla community stepped up to support those who needed it most.
The Christmas Cheer initiative, a collaboration between Tomorrow Today, Ray White Benalla and The Salvation Army, received a tremendous response from the local community.
Peter Symes from Ray White Benalla thanked the many local businesses and individuals in Benalla who gave so generously.
“I think Benalla is known for its generosity and this year is no different,” he said.
“We had a number of people and businesses walk through our door with large cash donations, as well as the many others who donated toys and gift vouchers.
“One that sticks in my mind was a very selfless local student who donated a $25 gift voucher that she won for her efforts at school this year.
“For us to see that was just so heartwarming, and it reminds us that the spirit of giving starts young and is incredibly strong in our town.”
Captain Ben Anderson from the Salvation Army agreed.
“The response this year is a credit to the Benalla community,” he said.
Mr Anderson said the Benalla Salvation Army had received 172 household registrations for assistance through the program, which represented approximately 550 individuals who benefited from hampers, toys and gift vouchers.
“This year is the first time we’ve distributed food hampers and gifts from our refurbished premises on Bridge St, and having everything under one roof has been much better for everyone, recipients and volunteers included,” he said.
“In fact, things have been calm and relaxed, which is exactly what everyone needs at this time of year.
“As we say here at the Salvos, we work better when we work together.”
Sally Matheson from Tomorrow Today agreed.
“The Christmas Cheer campaign is a very strong partnership with like-minded people who have come together to support our community to thrive,” she said.
“We are grateful to the Salvation Army and Ray White for making this a seamless collaboration once again.
“We’re looking forward to working with the community again in 2026 to make sure that the festive season is a happy one for everyone.”
