'We look after our folks': Help support East Gwillimbury families in need

East Gwillimbury Christmas food and toy drive supports local families in need

Yorkregion.com
December 12, 2018
Amanda Persico

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the East Gwillimbury Civic Centre turns in to a hub of activity -- sorting, packing and wrapping for the annual holiday toy and food drive.

For more than 20 years, the holiday drive has been the charity of choice for community groups, residents and businesses to give back during the holiday season.

“We look after our folks,” Mayor Virginia Hackson said. “That’s who we are.”

While it's heartfelt to see the community come together to support those in need, it’s just as heartbreaking to know there’s a need for it, she added.

“Not a year goes by that I’m not impacted personally (by the need),” she said. “You always want to think we have residents who can afford. But this is a reminder not everyone is as fortunate as others.”

The town collects unwrapped toys, non-perishable food and personal items. Donations are sorted and delivered to local organizations and then distributed to those in need in the community.

Last year, the town, as a corporation, sponsored a dozen families in need.

“If we have 12, then there are probably far, far more in need,” Hackson said. “Unfortunately, there are families who struggle, not just at Christmas time.”

Donations to the town’s toy and food drive help support various community organizations including the Holland Landing and Mount Albert food pantries; the Salvation Army; Blue Door Shelters; Rose of Sharon; Southlake pediatrics; Yellow Brick House; Sandgate Womens Shelter of York Region; as well as families in need within East Gwillimbury.

Some of the most requested items include:

• Toiletries and clothing for men, women, babies, children and seniors;

 

• Housewares and linens;

• Baby items: diapers, wipes, formula, bottles;

 

• Toys for preschoolers, toddlers and pre-teens; and

• Non-perishable food items.

 

Donations can be dropped off at the following locations:

• East Gwillimbury Sports Complex, 1914B Mount Albert Rd.;

 

• East Gwillimbury Civic Centre, 19000 Leslie St.;

• Holland Landing Community Centre and Library, 19513 Yonge St.; and

 

• Ross Family Complex and Library, 19300 Centre St., Mount Albert.

 

Donations will be accepted until Dec. 17.

For more information and for a full list of requested items, visit eastgwillimbury.ca