Midhurst/December 22, 2023 – Once again, residents, businesses, and organizations across our region have embraced the spirit of giving, having generously donated more than 18,140 toys, 14,757 lbs of food, and $21,342.34 in monetary and gift card donations to the County of Simcoe Paramedics Services 21st Annual Food and Toy Drive.
“With the need growing each and every year, I am so proud to see our County of Simcoe Paramedic Services staff, volunteers and students continue to give their time and energy to support those in need. It is truly amazing how our community embraced the campaign’s motto, ‘give a little, help a lot,’ as every little bit adds up to help bring Christmas to families in need. Although this year’s collection bins have been put away for the season, I’d like to remind everyone that we always accept donations online at simcoe.ca/toydrive”
Warden Basil Clarke, County of Simcoe
This year’s Food and Toy Drive received a significant boost through donations from businesses, including Global Medic and Cavalier Transport, and municipal partners, schools and organizations who hosted Toy Drives throughout December. With this year’s totals, the CSPS Food and Toy Drive has collected over 122,835 toys, 66,174 lbs of food, and approximately $267,800.27 in monetary and gift card donations for families across Simcoe County since it began 21 years ago.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our paramedics, volunteers, students and staff who have taken time out of their busy holiday season to attend parades and collection events held across the region. The donations we receive stay in the community, allowing donors to see the impact their generosity has on the lives of their neighbours. Thank you to those who gave, not just to our Drive, but to any organization working to better the lives of those we serve. It truly takes a village.”
Sarah Mills, Director and Chief, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services
All donations will continue to be distributed to local children and families in need by charitable organizations working in partnership with County of Simcoe Paramedic Services. Some of the charities supported by the County of Simcoe Paramedic Services Food and Toy Drive include the Salvation Army, Bradford Helping Hands Food Bank, Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions, Barrie Christmas Cheer and several local food banks including those in Alliston, Clearview, Coldwater, Elmvale, Tottenham, Orillia and Wasaga Beach.
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.