It will mark the 10th consecutive year of being involved in selling merchandise for Daffodil Day on Friday when its staff and residents man a table at Sunbury Square.

The money is raised for the Cancer Council for research to help find a cure.

"We started fund-raising because when I started here one of the residents' grandsons had cancer. It [the fund-raising] was something we could do to keep the residents motivated to help others," lifestyle co-ordinator at the hostel, Jenny Ford, said.

Twelve residents have been rostered to work at the hostel stall from 9.30am-4pm.

"The residents get so much enjoyment out of going there," Ms Ford said.

Over the past nine years, the staff have raised $13,000. They now aim to take the total to $15,000 in their 10th year.

The Cancer Council estimates more than 550 Hume residents will be diagnosed with cancer this year.

One in two Australians are diagnosed by the age of 85.

This year Daffodil Day will celebrate its 17th anniversary and the council hopes to raise $2 million.

All funds raised support cancer research, prevention programs and support services for patients and their families.

Council spokeswoman Deb Stringer said cancer figures remained a concern, but survival rates were continuing to improve with advances in treatment and early detection.

"Research has significantly contributed to the declining incidence of some cancers and the overall increase in cancer survival in Victoria from 48per cent in 1990 to over 60per cent at present."

Ms Stringer said

the council supported 354 cancer trials across regional and metropolitan Victoria last year.

"Research is essential if we are to increase our knowledge of cancer - why it occurs and what can be done to stop it.

"We'd like to offer more funding so more people have access to a variety of clinical trials in their area.

"By showing your support on Daffodil Day you will help us continue our support of cancer trials."

Donation details: visit www.daffodilday.com.au