While you’re out embracing those Black Friday weekend sales, keep 980 CJME’s Santas Anonymous in mind. That’s the message from Val Wiks with the Salvation Army.
For years, Wiks has helped connect hundreds of Regina families in need with donated Christmas presents through the toy drive.
Heading into the weekend, she said there were roughly 570 families who have applied to received gifts this year; however, that number is expected to grow as applications are open until Dec. 13.
Wiks says every toy donation means a less fortunate child has a gift to open this holiday season.
“It’s about on Christmas Day having toys — but then when the kids go back to school and everybody’s talking about their new things, what they got for Christmas, they get to share that conversation,” Wiks said, noting a present can be life changing for some.
“When you’re shopping for your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, remember there are others. Just buy a little bit extra and put it in the (donation) barrel.”
She noted the biggest need every year is for presents for kids ages 8 to 12. Wiks said gifts of games, books or mitts and scarves always go over well with that age group.
Donation bins will be sitting in banks, stores and malls across Regina until Dec. 10.
At 8 a.m. on Dec. 14, people are invited to the Regina and District Food Bank to help wrap all the donated toys.