News
Invercargill’s Salvation Army has been overwhelmed with hundreds of new toys thanks to Southern Grilles and Gasoline annual Santa Cruz sponsored by Burgerfuel.
Now in its 6th year, the car enthusiast group had 67 classics involved in the Christmas initiative, with drivers cruising the city last Friday to collect donated new toys from residents.
Club secretary Elwynne Millar-Pay said it was “absolutely incredible” the amount of gifts they received from the community - everything from lego to stuffed animals, puzzles, as well as coloured pencils and books. This year they also catered for teenagers.
“Our club is very much about giving back to the community,” she said.
The Santa Cruz car run was started by club member Jason Pope and the group has 32 active members.
All of the toys that come in are then collected by the Sallies and packed away for the following Christmas - those that they received in December 2024 are all given out to families this year.
Southern Grilles and Gasoline is now preparing for its next big fundraiser - the popular Waitangi weekend car show.
Hundreds of classic, custom, vintage and hot rod cars, trucks, caravans and motorbikes will be on display, and all proceeds will go towards the Wanda Well organisation and The Right Track programme.
Last year the show raised money for the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter, and the weekend kicks off with a Friday night drive through the city.
