More than 500 motorcyclists from around the ACT region will take part in the annual Christmas Toy Run, to bring joy to local people doing it tough over Christmas. Without them, many families may not get the chance to share in the joy of Christmas.
The Toy Run and mass ride will be held on Saturday 2 December, from 8am to 12pm. The event is organised by the Motorcycle Riders Association of the ACT (MRAACT), to support the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal and St John’s Care, in aid of children and families experiencing hardship this Christmas.
“We know it’s tough for so many people right now, but we also know that when the chips are down, Australians band together and help people in need,” a Salvation Army spokesperson said.
Motorcycle riders and their friends will gather outside Old Parliament House, in the carpark, for breakfast, then head out on a mass ride around Canberra at 10am, led by the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
The Canberra Branch of Ulysses Club will provide a paid breakfast BBQ. All profits will be donated to Toy Run charities.
Participants are invited to donate new toys, Christmas gifts, packaged food, and money.
Spectators can bring family and friends as well as toys and gifts, gift cards, groceries for a festive meal, and financial donations for those less fortunate in our community.
“The MRA ACT appreciates the support from the National Capital Authority Events Team and Australian Federal Police Traffic Team in holding the Toy Run”, said Mark Boast, President of the MRA ACT.
“Christmas is the busiest time of the year for the Salvos, and this Christmas, we expect the additional stresses of this year will result in more people than ever struggling to afford Christmas for themselves and their families,” Brett Gallagher, from the Salvation Army, said. “The Salvation Army are here for you. Whether it is practical support like food or presents, or if you are feeling down or lonely this Christmas, reach out to us at the Salvos.”
Last Christmas, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, the Salvation Army nationally distributed tens of thousands of food hampers to those struggling to make ends meet; received more than a quarter of a million gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without; provided more than 132,000 meals; and provided more than 66,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
For more information on how you can participate or support the Christmas Appeal and Toy Run, visit https://www.mraact.org.au/ or salvationarmy.org.au.
To find out about local Christmas event information, to donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, or if you need support from the Salvos, please visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/need-help/ or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.
