The deadlines for charitable giving are fast approaching, so we've rounded up all the details to help you make the season brighter for those less fortunate in our community.
What: The Shoebox Project for Women in York Region
When: Collecting until Dec. 15
Donation drop-off: Allstate Insurance, 17725 Yonge St. N., Unit 9
- Monday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why: The Shoebox Project for Women collects and distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to women affected by homelessness here in Newmarket and across Canada and the U.S. Beneficiaries include clients at Yellow Brick House, Sandgate Women’s Shelter, Pregnancy Care Centre and North York Women’s Shelter.
Tips: Your shoebox can include gifts valued at $50. Gift cards, skin care products, soaps and shampoos, chocolates, warm socks and mittens are just a few suggestions. Gift-givers are encouraged to put their own unique touch on their presents and can include a personal note of inspiration, or a poem.
More info: Visit here
What: The Neighbourhood Network, charitable arm of Magna International
When: Collecting until Dec. 21
Donation drop-off: Neighbourhood Network, 14988 Yonge St., Aurora, Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why: More than 400 non-profit organizations in York Region have written their wish lists and, with your support, those wishes can be fulfilled. For example, Belinda's Place, the emergency and transitional housing facility for homeless women in Newmarket, is wishing for new and gently used suitcases, bedding for single and double beds, hand and bath towels, flip flops and toiletries. The wish list for York Support Services Network/310-COPE includes gift cards for Tim Hortons and grocery stores, food, sweet & salty treats, adult socks, hats, mitts — and anything Christmasy.
Tips: Donations of gift cards are increasing in popularity because it empowers those on the receiving end to purchase things for themselves and their families.
More info: Call 905-726-3737 or visit here
What: York Regional Police 2018 Holiday Heroes campaign
When: Collecting until Dec. 14
Donation drop-off: Holiday Heroes will be collecting at Upper Canada Mall this weekend, Saturday, Dec. 8 and Sunday, Dec. 9, 17600 Yonge St. Otherwise, you can drop off your donation at any of the locations below.
- #1 District Headquarters - 240 Prospect Street, Newmarket
- #2 District Headquarters - 171 Major Mackenzie Drive West, Richmond Hill
- #3 District Headquarters - 3527 Baseline Road, Sutton
- #4 District Headquarters - 2700 Rutherford Road, Vaughan
- #5 District Headquarters - 8700 McCowan Road, Markham
- York Regional Police Headquarters - 47 Don Hillock Drive, Aurora
- Community Resource Centre – 10720 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill
Why: Thousands of families who have registered for assistance through local Salvation Army programs and Victim Services of York Region will receive your gift of new unwrapped toys, new children's clothing, gift cards, and Canadian Tire money.
Tips: You can be a holiday hero this year by making an online donation for the first time by visiting here
More info: Visit here
What: Town of Newmarket toy, food drive
When: Collecting until Dec. 11
Donation drop-off: Municipal Offices at 395 Mulock Dr.
Why: Toys will be presented to the local Salvation Army and non-perishable food items will be donated to the Newmarket Food Pantry.
More info: Call 905-895-5193
