Townsville riders have started a GoFundMe page to increase the fund raising for their 39th annual Toy Run next month to help families affected by February’s floods.
Click here to donate.
The floods, caused by a slow-moving cycling, was one of the worst natural disasters to impact the region causing two deaths, one missing person, 10 injuries and millions of dollars in damage.
Organiser Dave Ross says they hope to raise $5000 through their GoFundMe campaign.
Funds will be used to buy items such as Christmas trees and decorations, personal grooming for young teenagers, educational toys for toddlers, etc.
“So many Townsville families have lost absolutely everything in the floods earlier this year,” he says.
“Many families are still struggling with their loss and hopefully we can make the whole family smile on Christmas Day.”
2019 Townsville floodsTownsville Toy Run
The Townsville District Motorcycle Riders Association 39th annual Toy Run will start on Sunday, 24 November 2019, at the Riverway Precinct with registration and breakfast from 7am.
The 90km ride will start at 9am.
Apart from raising funds through crowd-funding, riders are asked to donate educational toys and puzzles, clothing, sporting goods, fishing gear, toiletries and beach towels.
Riders are also asked to decorate their bikes in a Christmas theme and include a stuffed toy bought form the Salvos store.
“These donations are handed to our community organisation which are then sorted into age groups for the parents to choose a gift for their children, that they otherwise may not have been able to afford,” Dave says.
“Unfortunately we are unable to stop during the ride to collect more donations.
“However we have donation points in Townsville which are advertised on our Facebook page.“
List your toy run
It might seem early, but we are already compiling a list of Toy Runs around the nation and need your help.
Click here to send details to us via email and we will add your toy run to this article.
Make sure to tell us where and when it starts, what where it goes, how long is the ride and what should riders bring as gifts?
Most toy runs accept gifts of toys and non-perishable foods which are distributed by various charities to needy families.
Riders are encouraged to dress up and decorate their bikes.