Appeal director Peter Caligari said the appeal was vital to meet the high demand for assistance from Ballarat families.

“It’s vitally imporant to the Ballarat community. We will be seeking support of the Ballarat community to assist our four major welfare agencies and charities,” Mr Caligari said.

The Christmas appeal, now in its 36^th year, was officially launched in Ballarat on Wednesday. 

Mr Caligari said donations of cash, toys and food items were sought to assist families suffering extreme hardship.

“These familes are desperate, really desperate, and we cannot allow them to become the forgotten members of our community,” Mr Caligari said.

“Sadly, the number of families now requiring assistance continues to grow every day which is placing enormous strain on the already over-stretched resources of our welfare agencies and charities, which desperately need support to continue their work.”

Mr Caligari said the appeal was widley recognised as being Ballarat’s foremost community appeal every Christmas.

He said every appeal donation remained in the Ballarat area to support families in need.

Appeal donations will assist Ballarat welfare agencies Uniting Care, Anglicare, Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society.

City of Ballarat mayor John Philips encouraged the Ballarat community to support the appeal. He urged residents to give a little more than they have previously or donate for the first time.

He said Christmas should be a happy time for everyone.

“We want all children to have something at Christmas time,” Cr Philips said. “It is a special time and it’s about families and making sure they can have a great Christmas.”

A number of events will be held to support the appeal, including a family night. Donations of cash, new toys and food items can be left at the 3BA office, 56 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat.