The 16th Annual Tigh-Na-Mara Toy Drive had everybody's spirits bright the morning of Dec. 4 in Parksville.
The community turned out in droves to donate new, unwrapped gifts and monetary donations, in return for a free breakfast at the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre. Santa Claus was also there along with his trusty volunteer elves. Even the Grinch put aside his grouchiness and helped bring smiles to the faces of everyone by being jolly.
The event benefits the SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program which ensures local children and youth experience the magic of Christmas and that adults and seniors also experience joy and dignity over the holidays.
All the donated gifts are taken to the SOS Toy Shop, where they are sorted by age group and organized on the shelves. Families and grandparents are given personal shopping appointments, and volunteer elves assist them in finding the perfect gift.
The Toy Drive was a great success!" said SOS communications manager Lissa Alexander. "We would like to thank everyone who came together to help make this event so successful: the team at Tigh-Na-Mara, the sponsors, the volunteers, everyone who attended and supported the event and RBC Royal Bank Parksville for volunteering and providing a grant. Thank you for Caring for Community at Christmas and helping make the holidays brighter for our residents in need."
For 2024, the totals showed a new record of 2,710 toys and gifts donated (up from 2,527 in 2023). There were $6,374 in gift cards donated, as well as $22,446 in cash and cheques and a $1,500 grant from RBC, bringing the total to $30,320. Records were also set for 2 Week Pre-Event Breakfasts at 1,211 and Toy Drive Day Breakfasts at 1,212.
The TNM staff Bikes for Tykes program also brought in an impressive 45 bikes and 40 gift cards for helmets, up significantly from a year ago.
"What an incredible contribution to SOS’ Caring for Community at Christmas program and our community," said Tigh-Na-Mara general manager Jim Hykaway. "What a great start to our Christmas season!"
For more information on SOS Caring for Community at Christmas, please visit www.sosd69.com.
