More than 50 volunteers braved the cold, can in hand, to raise money for the annual appeal which brought mixed results for groups in the region.

Ararat Red Cross defied the state trend, raising $500 more than last years’ $4,500 total. 

Ararat Red Cross’ Greg Turnbull said he was amazed by the generosity of individuals and businesses who helped them reach their $5000 goal. 

“We had a great response, people were giving multiple times which was great to see. 100 per cent of the money raised goes to Salvos social services, so thank you to everyone who gave,” he said.

“The Dominos Pizza in town supported us this year and gave $1 from every pizza sold on Friday, Saturday and Sunday which helped us get to our goal.”

Across the state donations were down 6.9 per cent, with Horsham falling $5,000 short of their $15,000 goal and Stawell Red Cross saying they’re currently down on last year but hopeful they’ll reach the $5,000 tally by the end of June.

Red Cross Horsham raised more than $9,000, with the tally likely to be bumped up to $10,000 once the centre completes its final count of the cash.

Horsham’s Carolyn Wright said there was a great response on the weekend, despite their overall tally being lower than recent years. 

“On the actual day we were up on last year, but overall we’re down,” she said.

“We raised more than $13,000 last year.”

Ms Wright said they will continue fundraising until June 4.

“I think it’s just the current climate of the town, areas are still in drought and everyone’s doing it tough,” she said. 

“We had a really good response, people are so generous I always feel blessed when I’m on the street, everyone is so generous.”

“The town’s shops and businesses were fantastic, they gave more than $900.”

Stawell Red Cross’ Ken Agnew said he was optimistic the group would reach around $5,000, even if they were currently low on donations. 

“We’re a little down at the moment but I’m positive we’re closing in on last year’s total,” he said. 

“Hopefully we’ll edge up there. People can still donate and have it counted towards the appeal.”

Mr Agnew said he wanted to thank residents for their generosity and encouraged them to keep donated up with money counted towards the appeal until the end of June.