Santa’s elves can’t possibly make all the toys, and a $7,500 donation to the Great Nanaimo Toy Drive will help buy a lot of presents for families in need this year.
The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive was happy to announce the donation from Western Forest Products made this week, which will be used to purchase toys and games for younger children and books and other gifts for teenagers.
The toy drive said in a press release that it simply could not offer the same kind of support in the community each year if not for generous donations like the one from WFP.
“We expect an even greater need from the community this year due to the pandemic and we have been working hard to make sure we can operate the toy drive safely and successfully,” said Krista Simpson, Great Nanaimo Toy Drive chairperson, in the release.
Kindry Mercer, manager of regional initiatives with Western Forest Products, expressed gratitude for charities like the toy drive – and its volunteers – who help bring “Christmas joy” to so many families.
“In this year where so many things are different, it is inspiring to see the innovative solutions being used to continue supporting the community while keeping everyone safe,” Mercer said in the release.
Distribution of presents will happen Dec. 16-17 and the toy drive said it still needs items to “help fill our Santa sacks.” No stuffed animals are being accepted this year due to COVID-19 health and safety considerations, but the toy drive is looking for books, games and puzzles suitable for children and families, gifts and stocking stuffers for teens, Lego sets, toys in the $25-40 range, and gift cards.
Donations may be dropped off at Coastal Community Credit Union and Save-On-Foods locations and at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo North Town Centre and Woodgrove Centre. For more information, visit http://thegreatnanaimotoydrive.ca or the toy drive’s Facebook page.
editor@nanaimobulletin.com
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