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Christmas events in Richmond benefit families in need

A toy drive takes place at Lansdowne on Saturday, Nov. 23.
christmas-classic-car-cruise
The Christmas Classic Car Cruise, on Dec. 1, is one of many fundraising activities happening in support of the Richmond Christmas Fund.

Christmas events are filling up calendars – and three of them will benefit the Richmond Christmas Fund.

Richmond Cares Richmond Gives’ (RCRG) Christmas Fund, supported in large part by community donations, gives toys, gift cards and grocery vouchers to families in need.

To raise money for the Christmas Fund, the 10th annual Richmond RCMP Toy Drive takes place on Saturday, Nov. 23. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Lansdowne Centre parking lot.

Anyone who brings a new, unwrapped toy, or makes a minimum $10 donation will receive a bag of mini donuts and a ticket to a Richmond Sockeyes game, while supplies last.

“The Richmond RCMP Toy Drive has become the Christmas Fund’s marquee event,” said Ed Gavsie, president & CEO of RCRG.

“This being the 10th year, it’s a significant milestone, and we’re excited for the community to come out and celebrate with us.”

The Christmas Fund is also hosting an online auction. Running from Nov. 19 to Dec. 5, it will feature a wide variety of items, from restaurant gift cards to household appliances.

“We like to say that every bid makes a holiday wish come true,” said Gavsie.

You can preview this year’s auction items and register to bid at rcf2024.givesmart.com.

Another popular event takes place on Dec. 1, when the Christmas Classic Car Cruise returns to Steveston.

From 11:45 a.m. to noon, dozens of classic and custom cars will parade through the village, before stopping in the Steveston Hotel parking lot, where they’ll remain on display until 2 p.m. Each driver will bring a donation for the Christmas Fund, and spectators are encouraged to do the same.

You can also support the program by donating online at rcrg.org/ChristmasFund

“It takes a community to keep the Christmas Fund going,” said Gavsie. “We’re grateful for every contribution we receive, because they all make a difference.”

Richmond Cares, Richmond is a registered charity that serves as a hub for volunteering and giving. RCRG is also a direct service provider, operating a Child Care Resource & Referral Centre, the Richmond Christmas Fund and a variety of Seniors Community Support Services. For more information, click here.  

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