Griffith's food and toy run is taking off soon, bringing needed positivity for the end of the year

The run is being organised by Janelle and Robert Smith, who also organised last year's initial campaign. Mrs Smith said that this year was even harder on many than last.

"I think everyone used their savings last year after the coronavirus, and now there's not much left for this year," she explained.

The run collects food and other necessities for those facing hard times, as well as toys for families in the lead-up to Christmas. The donations are distributed through Griffith Meals on Wheels and Hampers of Hope, who will also be accepting monetary donations through the day.

Mrs Smith said that so many were struggling that they felt it was important to help in any way they could.

"We just do it because we love to help out our community ... Everyone has a hard time, there's people who are working hard and paying their bills but they might not have enough left for food or Christmas toys," she said.

"Even a bottle of water or a $2 shampoo can go a long way for them. What goes around comes around."

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She added that the response to last year's event was extraordinary, and was hoping to match it this year - after filling one truck with donations last year, the Smiths have now sourced two in preparation.

"We got quite a lot, it was an amazing response from the community and some of the businesses. We put a challenge out to the businesses to donate or help however they can."

After the donations are collected, anyone is invited to enjoy a cruise to a surprise location, taking off from the carpark outside the visitor's centre on December 11, meeting at 11am. The cruise will finish off with a celebratory sausage sizzle.

Donations are still being accepted, Mrs Smith explained.

"They can bring things down on Saturday morning to the aeroplane carpark, or even next week to the Meals on Wheels hub on Yambil Street."

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