CANORA – The Yuletide Toy Drive has become a beloved local tradition in recent years, and it is back once again for 2025.
Families who are concerned they won’t be able buy toys for Christmas gifts have until Dec. 12 to submit their names to receive gifts, according to Jocelyn Weinbender, spokesperson.
The Yuletide Toy Drive is held in memory of the late Byron Chayeski, an advanced care paramedic in Canora. Chayeski organized the first drive in 2010, when it was known as the Yuletide Medic Drive.
Weinbender said in the last few years, some of the same families have asked for assistance from year to year, but there have been a number of new requests each year as well, including many single parent families. She says getting this kind of help has special meaning for the recipients.
“Times are getting tougher, everything is getting pricier. If you can help out a little bit and help a family in need, it’s heartwarming,” said Weinbender.
“When I became a single mom, a group from outside of Canora came to our place with presents and a food hamper. I was flabbergasted, it definitely helps. It lets you know people care. This toy drive helps the children, gives people hope.”
Each year, one of the highlights of the endeavour for young and old alike is the Fill the Sleigh Day, scheduled to take place at the Canora Red Apple Store on Dec. 6. Donations of toys and cash will be accepted from 9 a.m. until closing.
The Red Apple will donating five per cent of sales on Fill the Sleigh Day back to the Toy Drive.
In addition to the Red Apple, throughout the toy drive donations are also being accepted at Crossroads Credit Union and at Aspen Paramedic Services at 802 Norway Road South.
“In recent years, some of the most common donations have been dinosaurs, colouring books, craft supplies, puzzles and games,” said Weinbender.
Used items are not accepted, donations must be new and still in the package.
“Any food donations have to be non-perishable items. Perishable food donations should be made to the food bank.”
The goal for this year’s Toy Drive is $6,000, Weinbender said. While toy donations are welcome, cash gives them some valuable flexibility.
“Yes, definitely, it fills the spaces, especially if something is lacking for a specific age group. In the past we’ve used the cash to buy sketching supplies, blankets, socks, whatever is needed for a specific age group."
The deadline for donation of toys, other gifts and cash is Dec. 12.
Last year, a total of 56 Canora and area children received toys and other gifts in time for Christmas through the Yuletide Toy Drive.
Weinbender said volunteer help plays an important role in the continued success of the Toy Drive.
“For sure, there is one lady I know who just loves to come out and help wrap gifts.”
She emphasized that the personal information of the families who receive gifts is kept confidential.
“Gifts are pre-wrapped and delivered in a black garbage back. The only information on the bag would be, for example, ‘Gift for a six-year-old boy.’”
Weinbender said the plan is for the gifts to be wrapped and distributed by Dec. 19.
Anyone looking for more information, or to receive gifts, is encouraged to phone Jocelyn Weinbender at 306-563-5625.
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