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Host Peter McCully welcomes Tigh-Na-Mara general manager Paul Drummond and SOS executive director Susanna Newton, who discuss the impact and significance of this community-driven event.
Paul Drummond, reflecting on the 15 years of the Tigh-Na-Mara Toy Drive, discusses the structure of the event, which includes a hybrid approach involving a traditional breakfast for donors through Cedar’s Restaurant and at the Community Buffet Breakfast on Wednesday, Nov. 29.
“Unbelievable, isn’t it? You look back and 15 years ago we started this event, and it’s grown and grown and it’s just, it’s remarkable,” said Drummond. “It’s the start of Christmas, and they (staff) really feel like they’re doing something very big and important for the community.”
Susanna Newton talks about the impact of the Toy Drive.
“Last Christmas, we saw over 1,000 local adults, including many seniors, and provided gifts for over 1,000 children and youth,” she said. “So, it has significant impact for the local community.”
Newtom stressed the importance of financial donations, which assist in providing essentials like food, rent, gas, and prescription medications for those in need and seniors. The community’s generosity is vital, especially in a time when many people are struggling due to the high cost of living.
Monday to Friday, from Nov. 13 to Nov. 24, bring a new, unwrapped toy, gift card or cash donation to Cedars Restaurant during breakfast hours and receive a free traditional breakfast. On Nov. 29, from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m, the Toy Drive Breakfast event will take place. There will also be a drive-through donation dropoff from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The event allows people to contribute by donating cash, gift cards or new, unwrapped toys.
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