Rotary appeal for community donations

This year's Give a Damn, Give a Can appeal is hitting the streets harder than ever, with Rotary Club of Bunbury Leschenault organisers searching for Bunbury's most generous street.

The annual food-raising appeal is on again on May 1, but this year is different to past years according to coordinator Paco Tovar.

"Recent tough economic conditions in the region along with devastating bushfires have meant that many families in the community are struggling to put food on the table," Mr Tovar said.

"And charity organisations are stretched to the limit.

"The Salvation Army has informed us there is a lot of need for families still struggling.

"In winter there is always a shortfall, but this year with the fires there is even more of a need."

Greater Bunbury households will receive an information flyer and bag in the post leading up to the appeal.

Residents are asked to fill their bags with non-perishable foods to be collected by volunteers.

Mr Tovar said volunteers were on the lookout for Bunbury's most generous street as part of the appeal.

"This year we would like to encourage not only individual households, but whole streets to participate," he said.

About 150 volunteers will be collecting the donations and will divide the items into three groups for the Bunbury Intown Centre, The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul.

Residents who miss the collection day can leave their bags at council offices and Bunbury, Eaton, Capel and Australind libraries.

Suggested donations include pasta, rice, baked beans, canned meals and fruits, soups, toiletries and baby products.