MORE than 50 families doing it tough will receive gifts this Christmas, thanks to a student-led fundraiser at Cardross Primary School.
Principal Simon Trembath said about 70 donations were given to Salvation Army Sunraysia's toy drive last week by students and their families.
He said the initiative was driven by Prep students, who had been learning about how to care for people in the community.
"They did some research and investigated different organisations, and they came across the work that the Salvation Army do at Christmas time, specifically with the toy appeal," he said.
"The kids thought it was a fantastic idea and that would be something that they could promote within our own school community.
"It was just great that this was initiated by the kids, who wanted to really make sure they had the opportunity to take action and make a difference and see change within their local community."
Mr Trembath said it was a great feeling for staff and students when the gifts were handed over last week.
"There's an immense amount of pride that they have been able to have that impact," he said.
"They know they've done a lot of work with their teacher around the impact that that has on those families who might be struggling this Christmas and we're certainly aware of the impact that a gift for a child can have for a family who's doing it a bit tough."
Salvation Army Sunraysia Major Debbie Serojales said the organisation had been grateful for all the support from the community, gyms, schools and businesses, as hundreds of gifts had been donated in the lead up to Christmas.
"Christmas is such a joyful time but when it becomes hard it causes stress," she said.
"It's nice to be able to help families re-find that joy and just to help them out, but we couldn't do it without the community support."
Ms Serojales said families doing it tough had began receiving the gifts ahead of Christmas.
"Lots of people have gone away with some big smiles and lots of appreciation, as well as a few tears because they've been so grateful," she said.
"It's been a special time. "
