By Jenna Cocullo, Local Journalism Initiative
Organizers of The Gift toy drive are holding a “no questions asked” giveaway after the great generosity of Chatham-Kent’s residents led to a surplus of donations.
On Friday morning, their headquarters on 740 Richmond St. by Keil Drive was filled with cars in the parking lots as people waited their turn to browse all the goods inside.
“We are stocked and ready for 400 people to show up,” said Chatham Coun. Amy Finn who was wearing her volunteer hat for the day.
Community members have been going to the warehouse every day for the past two weeks to help sort out toys, food and clothing.
The items collected from The Gift’s Nov. 21 drive were given to the Salvation Army, Chatham Goodfellows, and any organization that helps out kids during Christmas time. But there was still too much leftover.
“This was Chatham. The whole city came together and this is the end result,” Finn said. “We’ve got coats, we’ve got got blankets, we’ve got crockpots that were donated to us. We’ve even got boxes stored underneath (the tables) as replenishing stock.”
Everyone who comes through the doors is also getting a food basket. Other products available for pick up are cleaning supplies, menstrual products, and fresh fruits or vegetables.
“Anybody can come. If they believe they have a need and they’d like to, then we encourage them to come in and pull into line.”
Finn said it makes her feel proud to see how much the community pulled through for one another.
“Our community cares and that’s what it’s all about. And now we know the kids are going to be taken care of. This is my favourite time of year and I love watching a child open up something for Christmas.”
