Hundreds of people turned out Tuesday to help make Christmas brighter for children in the South Okanagan this season.
The 22nd Annual Toys for Tots to Teens had a new venue, but the generosity was still there helping several organizations collect toys for children of all ages.
This year’s event at Canadian Tire Penticton from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., saw over 1,500 toys donated, and $8,000 in toys, gift cards and cash purchased at Canadian Tire.
Canadian Tire is generously matching the donations which were purchased at their store bring the total cash value this year to over $16,000.
Those who donated during the day were treated to coffee and muffins from Tim Horton’s throughout the day, and burgers or hot dogs in the afternoon courtesy of IGA Penticton.
Other highlights included performances by the Wiltse and Parkway Elementary School Choir, and the Get Bent Belly Dancers, and of course, visits from Santa himself who posed for pictures with numerous excited children. Countless volunteers helped make the day possible.
Gifts collected during the day are being distributed to several organizations including the Salvation Army, YES Youth, Dragonfly Pond, SOWINS, Church of the Nazarene, St. Vincent, Yes Youth Project, SOVAS, Pen High and other organizations that are in need.
Donations will continue to be collected right up to Dec.13 at Canadian Tire and the SunFM/EZ Rock station, located at 33 Carmi Ave.