Salvation Army offering aid to central York Region families this Christmas

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 15, 2016
By Chris Simon

A few toys and a hamper of food can make a world of difference to a struggling family.

That’s the motivation driving the Salvation Army of Central York Region’s 2016 Christmas assistance program, which is already well underway. Right now, a team of volunteers is seeking applications from residents in the Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, Aurora, Bradford, Schomberg and Stouffville area. They hope to help about 1,200 families this year - or about 2,500 children.

“The big thing is getting an application,” Army community and family services director Ray Varkki said, at Santa’s Workshop, a temporary sorting location at the former Canadian Tire building in Aurora. “Every child gets a larger value item, a moderately priced item, books, stocking stuffers and a stuffy. Everyone gets a board game and a puzzle because they instil family values and bonding. A son or daughter will want to play with mom or dad. Here, we’ll even pack some things for grandparents. We’re trying to instil dignity.”

New, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items are needed, he said.

The program runs in collaboration with the York Regional Police Holiday Heroes effort and the Newmarket Lions Santa Fund.

“We also have a pile of individuals who come,” Lions representative Kirby Brock said, noting single residents and couples also receive food and clothing through the program. "We work together with the Salvation Army. We really work hand-in-hand with them."

Applicants are required to provide proof of address and income and two pieces of identification to qualify for assistance. However, they are also treated with respect. When each applicant fills out a registration form, they are asked to provide information on the interests of their children. The volunteers then attempt to provide relevant gifts.

“We want to make sure it’s a positive experience and people feel good about coming here,” Varkki said. “This is not about being down and out or asking for a handout. You meet people and make friends. If you tell me your eight-year-old loves Lego Spiderman, that’s what he’s going to get at Christmas.”

While the toys will be available for pickup by appointment over the next few weeks, food hampers will not be given out until Dec. 19 and 20.

Donations can be dropped off at the former CTC, at 14700 Yonge St., Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bins are also available at sites throughout the area, including Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket and Costco in East Gwillimbury. While donations will be accepted until Christmas, ideally, they'd like all contributions dropped off by Dec. 15, Varkki said.

Over the next few weeks, donations will also be collected at local Santa Claus parades, he said.

Applications for assistance can also be dropped off at the former Canadian Tire, the Army’s Northridge Community Church (15338 Leslie St. in Aurora) or the Newmarket Food Pantry (1251 Gorham St., Unit 8 and 9).

For more information on the program, volunteering or applying for assistance, contact the Northridge church at 905-895-6276 or visit northridgesa.com.