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Yuletide Toy Drive looking to help those in need this Christmas

The opportunity to continue the Canora Christmas tradition of helping youngsters in need is underway.
2017 Fill the Sleigh
On December 8, during the annual Yuletide Toy Drive, a Canora ambulance EMS vehicle will be at The Bargain Shop for the day, with the goal of filling it with as many or more toys than they accumulated on Fill the Sleigh day last year, as pictured.

The opportunity to continue the Canora Christmas tradition of helping youngsters in need is underway.

Canora Ambulance is once again holding the annual Yuletide Toy Drive for those who may otherwise go without gifts this Christmas season, said Jocelyn Weinbender, spokesperson with Canora Ambulance.

The first drive was held in 2010. It was organized by the late Byron Chayeski, an advanced care paramedic. In those days it was known as the Yuletide Medic Drive.

The drive appears to be getting more support from the community each year, with approximately 46 children from 17 families receiving toys last year, said Weinbender.

She said it’s very rewarding to be in a position to give the toys to families in need.

“It’s so good to see the faces of the parents when they receive the toys. They’re so very thankful and happy,” she said.         

Weinbender said any families which contact Canora Ambulance to receive toys are assured that they will remain anonymous.

Toy collection began shortly after Remembrance day and continues until December 20. Cash donations are also welcome, especially in situations where there are specific needs not met by toy donations.

Donations of new toys, books, crafts and games may be left in donation bins set out at the following Canora locations: The Bargain Shop, Canora Pharmacy, Canora Junior Elementary School, Canora Composite School, Canora Ambulance Care, Crossroads Credit Union or the CIBC during business or office hours. Monetary donations may be left at the Canora Ambulance office or at The Bargain Shop.

Weinbender said The Bargain Shop will be the site of the Fill the Sleigh campaign on December 8.

“We are planning to bring an EMS Suburban to the store, with the goal of filling it with toys by the end of the day,” she said.

The Bargain Shop has pledged to donate an additional 10 per cent of all toy purchases on December 8 to the toy drive.

After the drive closes, Canora Ambulance staff will have the opportunity to make their own donations and then wrap the presents.

Those who are looking for more information or who wish to be considered for gifts may call Canora Ambulance.