Like so many community events, Toys for Tots which raises toys and financial donations for the Christmas Bureau program of the Archway Food Bank, has had to readjust their plans due to COVID-19. The fundraiser has transitioned to a drive–thru event in the parking lot of Clarion Hotel (formerly Quality Hotel & Conference Centre) on November 27th.
Individuals who drop by between 7am to 10am with a toy or donation will get to wave to Santa & his helpers, catch a glimpse of the Ever After Princesses and receive a free treat bag to enjoy within their safe bubble and within the comfort of their car.
“While the event has had to scale back, the spirit of the event reigns true. We’re so thankful we can still host this event as we observe all the safety protocols,” said event organizer, Rebecca Thuro.
Last year’s event raised over $42,000 and 1,800 toys. After a busy 2019 Christmas season, the stock of toys has dwindled, and organizers hope the event will fill the empty shelves again.
“We anticipate more families using our Christmas Bureau after a tough year,” said Dave Murray, Manager of the Archway Food Bank. “We’ve already seen an increase in the number of people accessing services at the food bank and it’s anticipated that this event will make the joy of receiving a gift under the tree possible for over 1,500 children in Abbotsford.”
Event Volunteers, including Envision staff with Santa, at the 2019 Toys for Tots event.
“The return of sponsors, partners and community support means so much more this year,” said Thuro. “Our returning platinum sponsors, Envision Financial and Teamwork Property Management also provide volunteers which is so vital to running a large event like this.”
Envision Financial’s president, Dave Lanphear shared, “we’re honoured to again partner with Toys for Tots Abbotsford. It’s truly a privilege to work together to help brighten the lives of others during the holiday season.”
“Since the inception of Abbotsford’s Toys for Tots Christmas Breakfast, Teamwork Property Management has been proud to contribute as a sponsor for this great event. We at Teamwork believe in the importance of giving back to our community, and every child deserves to experience a Christmas filled with happiness, fond memories and fun,” said Joe Hackett, Principal of Teamwork Property Management Ltd.
For those who can’t attend the event a new way to donate has been added. There are now drop–off locations all over the city during the month of November. A map of all the drop–off locations are listed on the event webpage at AbbyToysForTots.com
After the event, the toys are brought to the Archway Christmas Bureau of Abbotsford, where families who wouldn’t have otherwise been able to provide gifts for their children can select gifts for their children.
All are welcome to attend the event on November 27th from 7am – 10am at Clarion Hotel (formerly Quality Hotel) 36035 North Parallel Rd. To learn more please visit AbbyToysforTots.com.
“We’ve already seen an increase in the number of people accessing services at the food bank and it’s anticipated that this event will make the joy of receiving a gift under the tree possible for over 1,500 children in Abbotsford.”