Residents of Canora and surrounding area once again have the opportunity to continue the Christmas tradition of helping local youngsters in need.
Canora Ambulance Care is holding the Yuletide Toy Drive through the Christmas season for children who might otherwise go without gifts during this festive time of year, said Jocelyn Weinbender, spokesperson with Canora Ambulance Care.
The first drive, organized by the late Byron Chayeski, an advanced care paramedic, was held in 2010. At that time, it was known as the Yuletide Medic Drive.
Support for the drive continues to be strong as the years go by. In 2018, 40 children from 13 families received toys for Christmas, Weinbender reported.
She said it’s extremely gratifying to make a difference for families in need.
“Helping other people is really what makes it enjoyable,” she said. “And helping children makes it that much more of a blessing.”
Any families which contact Canora Ambulance Care with requests to receive toys are assured that they will remain anonymous.
“It’s a matter of pride with a lot of people,” said Weinbender. “They don’t want other people to know that they have to ask for help.”
Toy collection has begun for children right from newborns to teenagers, and will continue until December 17. Cash donations are also welcome, especially where there are specific needs which are not met by toy donations.
Donations of new items such as toys, books, crafts, games and so on may be left in donation bins set out at the following Canora locations: Red Apple (during business hours), Canora Pharmacy (during business hours), Canora Junior Elementary School (during school hours), Canora Composite High School (during school hours), Canora Ambulance Care (during office hours), Crossroads Credit Union (during business hours) and CIBC (during business hours).
Donated items not accepted include: used items, edible food items and bare wood. Food items should be donated to various food hampers around the community, while used items are welcomed by thrift shops.
Weinbender said the Fill the Sleigh campaign will arrive at Red Apple on December 7.
“We are planning to bring an ambulance to Red Apple, with the goal of filling it with toys by the end of the day,” Weinbender said.
She added that Santa will be making an appearance during the day to say hello, and also check on how the toy drive is progressing.
Red Apple has made a commitment to donate 10 per cent of all toy sales on December 7 back to the Yuletide Toy Drive for further toy purchases.
After the drive closes, Canora Ambulance Care staff will be given the opportunity to make their own donations and then wrap the presents.
Anyone looking for more information or wishing to be considered for gifts may call Canora Ambulance Care.
