This year’s outpouring of volunteer support for The Santa Claus Fund is unprecedented.
Droves of people turned up at secret warehouse location in Brampton on Monday to help deliver gift boxes to thousands of less fortunate children in Peel— and because of the overwhelming numbers of “elves”, deliveries are almost complete.
“We were totally astounded,” said Rob Williams, who organizes the volunteer delivery efforts at that location with his wife Kim. “The turnout was incredible.”
More than 65 drivers showed up for the first night of deliveries— an effort that usually unfolds over the course of a week or so— and almost all recipients were checked off the list.
“We were actually backlogged,” said Williams, in disbelief. “Volunteers were lined up waiting for boxes to deliver. It was absolutely amazing, we were flabbergasted.”
The depot opened at 6:30 p.m., and one man had been waiting since 5 p.m. to make his annual contribution to the cause.
Many of the volunteers, noted Williams, were “repeats”— people who have offered a hand with the effort in past years, and loved the experience.
Williams said he’s grateful for this year’s impressive turnout.
Those who still wish to make a contribution to The Mississauga News Santa Claus Fund can make a donation in any amount to the cause— more donations are needed to meet this year’s goal of providing over 4,000 children 12 years and under with gift boxes containing clothes, candy, toys, socks, mitts, hats, books and more.
To make a donation, send a cheque to: The Mississauga News Santa Claus Fund, 3145 Wolfedale Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5C 3A9. Visa and MasterCard donations can be made by calling 416-869-4847 or online at www.thestar.com/santaclausfund.
A small donation can go a long way towards ensuring a merry Christmas for children in the community. There's no minimum donation required.
The Toronto Star absorbs all administrative costs, so all proceeds go directly into buying the gifts. The Star does not allow anyone to solicit on its behalf. Tax receipts will be issued.
If you have been touched by the Santa Claus Fund, or have a story to tell, e-mail Julia Le at email@example.com or call 905-273-8141.