CANORA — Thanks to the generosity of Canora and area residents, local families who simply didn’t have the money to buy presents this Christmas will be receiving toys for their children, thanks to the Yuletide Toy Drive and Fill the Sleigh Day, held on Dec. 6 at the Red Apple Store in Canora.
“The cost for everything is going up these days,” said Jocelyn Weinbender, Toy Drive spokesperson. “We’re really grateful for all the support. It’s nice to see there’s still kindness in this world, even with everything else going on.”
For Fill the Sleigh Day, an ambulance provided by Aspen Paramedic Services was parked outside the Red Apple to hold all the donated toys. Weinbender said just over $5,000 was raised, and 17 needy families with 52 children will be receiving toys and enjoying the magic of Christmas this year.
“One mother said she had absolutely nothing to buy presents for the kids, most of the families are very appreciative.”
During Fill the Sleigh Day, there was plenty of fun going on at the Red Apple, including a visit from Santa Claus that lasted from 11 a.m. until around 4 p.m.
“Santa was giving out candy bags, volunteer kids handed out colouring sheets,” said Weinbender. “Some of the people who donated toys thanked Red Apple for hosting it.”
Following Fill the Sleigh Day, the Red Apple Store donated $400 back to the Toy Drive to assist in the purchase of toys.
A significant show of support came from Canora Composite School as part of its “12 Days of Christmas.”
“CCS celebrates the 12 Days of Christmas with different fun events on the last 12 days of school before Christmas break,” said Weinbender. “The school did their own toy drive on one of those days. About 60 toys were donated, including games, nerf guns and other toys.”
Weinbender said the toys will be wrapped by volunteers and delivered by Dec. 18 and 19.
“Volunteer help is important, we couldn’t do this without them. Aspen Paramedic Services staff and members of their families helped out. A huge thank you to Red Apple staff.”
Once again, the people of Canora and area have shown their willingness to step up and help those who are struggling.
“Thank you to everyone for the support,” said Weinbender. “and for keeping kindness and the spirit of Christmas alive.”
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