More than $670,000 had been donated by 11am on Friday.
Phil Haines made the request on behalf of his wife at a press conference at The Alfred hospital, where his wife remains in a critical condition after being hit by a car outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday.
The Save the Children fundraising page said Dr Haines had “demonstrated a deep commitment to helping others and making a positive difference in her community”.
“Helen has been a passionate supporter of Save the Children, most recently lending her voice to our work and the urgent challenges facing children in Australia and around the world.”
Save the Children Australia chief executive Mat Tinkler said he was “blown away” by the generosity of those who had donated.
“During such a devastating situation, it cannot be overstated how much we are moved that Helen and her family directed support to our organisation and children in need,” he said.
"The support Australians have shown for Helen, and for Save the Children, through their donations has been overwhelming.
“We will work closely with Helen and her family to ensure that every dollar so generously donated supports vulnerable children in our region and on causes that are close to her heart.”
To donate to Save the Children, visit savethechildrenfundraising.org.au/helenhaines
