In 2010 the Christmas Cheer initiative was able to provide food and gifts to more than 300 families - about 1000 individuals - in the Hepburn Shire.

Hepburn Child and Family Services (CAFS) officer, Janet McKay, said: "Christmas is a special time for many people, but it can also be a difficult time."

"Christmas Cheer offers families and individuals additional support to make Christmas a festive time."

Daylesford and District Food Aid founder Carmel Thannhauser said Christmas Cheer wasn't about numbers, it was about putting a smile on everyone's face.

"Every single person can help," Mrs Thannhauser said.

"They can volunteer, bring a gift, make a food donation, or bring a friend along who needs some help."

Christmas Cheer is a collective effort by various community services in Daylesford to offer families a gift and food hamper for Christmas. These services included community volunteers, Daylesford St Vincent's De Paul conference, Daylesford Food Bank, Anglican Parish of Daylesford, CAFS Hepburn, Daylesford Community Health and Daylesford Makers Market.

The services sought community support in the way of donations of money, toys, sports equipment, books, games and other quality gifts.

Donations of food to make up hampers would also be gratefully accepted, the groups say, and 100 per cent of all donations will be distributed to those in need.

Mrs Thannhauser implored people to look around and check on their friends and neighbours, and invite anyone who might need help to the Christmas Cheer event on December 20 and 21.

She said giving trees were situated at the Mill Market and Deb's Cafe in Albert St, and collection baskets were in the back of most local churches.

She said gifts for the eight to 14-year-old demographic, such as MP3 players and make-up, were always needed.

To make a donation, phone CAFS on 5348 8200 or Hepburn Health Service on 5321 6559.