Richmond RCMP’s annual toy drive is looking to surpass last year’s records.
The 10th edition of this event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lansdowne Centre near the Canada Line Station.
In support of the Richmond Christmas Fund, which is organized by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG), the RCMP is encouraging the community to donate new, unwrapped toys or a suggested minimum $10 donation.
Those who donate will receive a bag of mini donuts and a ticket to a Richmond Sockeyes game.
Chief Supt. Dave Chauhan, officer-in-charge of the Richmond RCMP, told Richmond News the purpose of this initiative is to give back to the community, especially to those who need it the most.
Some of the things Chauhan hears from families who have been supported by the toy drive is a deep sense of gratitude, especially from the children.
“The joy on their faces, the expressions when they see a toy that they receive during Christmas,” he said. “It's a really positive response from the community and the families that we support.”
This is the 92nd continuous Richmond Christmas Fund, said RCRG CEO Ed Gavsie. Last year, the fund gave away gift cards for just under 4,000 people and between 10 to 12,000 toys — a large part of these toys come from the RCMP’s Toy Drive.
That same year, the RCMP Toy Drive broke its record by raising $29,347 and collecting 2.3 tonnes of toys.
“We hear every year stories of families, and especially children, who would not be able to have any toys with the cost of living and other demands,” said Gavsie.
However, financial strains on people and corporations are putting a strain on charities across the country.
“One of the first things that corporations will tend to cut when they need to improve their finances will be charitable giving,” said Gavsie. “And the demand is growing.”
Seniors in need are also supported with gift cards during the holidays.
The RCMP Toy Drive will host a range of other activities, such as photos with Santa and a ball hockey game between members of the Sockeyes and the Richmond RCMP, against local VIPs.
Early donations will also be accepted if attendance isn’t possible on Saturday at any Richmond RCMP community police office location. Toy drive donations can also be dropped off at any RBC Royal Bank location.
For more information on early donation locations, visit the Richmond RCMP release.
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