The Salvation Army and Northwestel launched their annual toy drive on Friday with a target of helping hundreds of NWT children receive toys this Christmas.
New toys, unwrapped, can be donated at the Salvation Army or Northwestel’s Yellowknife retail store until December 9. (The same initiative also operates in Whitehorse.)
“I grew up being the recipient of these toys – in a different province, but through the Salvation Army,” said Tony Brushett, who is now the executive director of the Salvation Army in Yellowknife.
“I did not know where they were coming from as a child. That never left me.
“Coming into the Salvation Army, having an opportunity like this, it’s just so wonderful and so fulfilling.”
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Parents who need extra help at Christmas have the opportunity to walk through the donated toys and select items they think their children would want the most.
According to Brushett, 361 toys were donated last year – meaning this year’s goal is at least 362.
“When you buy toys, it’s amazing how much the parents go for the Legos, activity sets, science sets, things that really fuel a kid’s intelligence and imagination and creativity,” said Beverly Howell-Brushett, director of spiritual care at the Salvation Army in Yellowknife.
“I remember a mom last year. Everything she picked out was exactly what her kid would want. That was really cool to see. She was happy. She left on air.
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“We would love to be there when they’re unwrapping it, because we don’t get to do that – but we knew we hit the mark.”
Northwestel said this year marks the 10th anniversary of the company’s involvement in the toy drive.
Imran Khan, the company’s chief financial officer, said an employee in Fort Nelson started collecting toys for local families “and it ballooned into an annual event.”
“We’re extremely proud to collect toys from our employees and encourage other northern residents to come and donate as many toys as they can,” he said.
For the first time, Premier RJ Simpson attended the annual toy drive launch.
“I think it’s important to support these initiatives where we have industry and non-profits coming together to provide services that are sometimes out of the reach of a lot of people,” Simpson said.
“Prices are going up across Canada and people are really starting to feel that impact. Not everyone can afford the gifts that their children might want.
“This is an initiative that really does spread joy, and allows those who can help to help people who might need a bit more support during the holiday season.”
