The spirit of the holiday season will be in full swing at the 13th annual Archway Toys for Tots Christmas Brunch, presented by the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre, on Sunday, November 23rd from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The annual event brings hundreds together in a festive celebratory kickoff of the holiday season in support of the Archway Food Bank’s Christmas Bureau program, which helps ensure families in need get to experience the joy of the holiday season.
Community members who bring new, unwrapped toys or monetary donations will be treated to a complimentary buffet brunch, along with a festive lineup of live entertainment for all ages.
The event will feature musical performances by Cambree Lovesy, Ryan McAllister, and the energetic Abby Senior Drumline. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance, offering free Santa photos at the photo booth. Cliff Prang will also be returning as the event emcee, bringing his signature humour and holiday spirit to the stage.
Guests will also have the unique opportunity to view the Calder Cup, proudly won by the Abbotsford Canucks earlier this year. The trophy will be on display at the event, offering fans a chance to see this celebrated piece of hockey history up close.
“It’s heartwarming to witness our community rally together to make the holidays brighter for families that are really struggling this year. We’re looking forward to seeing the continued generosity at this year’s brunch.
“It’s heartwarming to witness our community rally together to make the holidays brighter for families that are really struggling this year,” said Rebecca Thuro, Food Security Manager at Archway. “We’re looking forward to seeing the continued generosity at this year’s brunch.”
With the ongoing increased need for food bank services, Thuro estimates they will provide gifts for more than 1500 children, 600 teens and 230 seniors this holiday season.
The Christmas Bureau toy room opens November 25th and all the toys donated at the event will go directly to stocking the shelves that are currently empty.
“Although the event name highlights toddlers, toy donations are accepted for children of all ages, including teens and even seniors who are often overlooked,” said Thuro.
“Our children were able to wake up to presents under the tree and a hearty Christmas breakfast. Without the Christmas Bureau, we would have been hard pressed to provide a Christmas for them,” said a Christmas Bureau participant.
“We are grateful for the companies able to step up and sponsor this event, especially during a challenging year for many. Every dollar donated by caring individuals, families, and businesses matter. We’re counting on our community to step up and help bring joy to those who need it most this Christmas,” said Cindy Walker, Archway Manager of Philanthropy.
For those unable to attend the event, financial donations can be made online at AbbotsfordFoodBank.com/Donate-T4T, and toy donations can be dropped off at the Archway Food Bank during regular weekday hours, or at participating locations across Abbotsford.
To sign up for RSVP updates or learn more about the event, including suggested gift ideas and drop-off locations, please visit AbbyToysforTots.com
We are grateful for the companies able to step up and sponsor this event, especially during a challenging year for many. Every dollar donated by caring individuals, families, and businesses matter. We’re counting on our community to step up and help bring joy to those who need it most this Christmas.
