980 CJME’s 51st annual Santas Anonymous was able to adapt to the pandemic to spread Christmas cheer.
COVID meant that it wouldn’t be safe to hold the traditional Wrap Day, where volunteers would gather to wrap gifts donated to children in need.
However, there was a safe, socially distanced alternative; drop off donations and the Drive Thru Collection Day.
Volunteers and 980 CJME staff stood out in the cold, guiding people through the east Canadian Tire parking lot to drop off unwrapped toys. People didn’t have to leave their cars and were able to keep their distance.
From 12 p.m to 4 p.m Saturday, hundreds of toys were donated.
The distanced drop-off isn’t the only safety measure. Toys will sit for 72 hours before they are packaged, sorted and given to kids.
On top of collection Saturday, drop-off bins were set up around Regina since Nov. 12.
A highlight of this year’s campaign was a massive donation from a little girl with a big heart.
Six-year-old Harlee Marre raised more than $1,300 to help make sure every kid has a gift under the tree this year.