York Regional Police are collecting cash, food, gifts, and more as the force kicks off its 28th annual Holiday Heroes campaign to bring cheer to those in need this season.
The campaign, which runs until Dec. 13, raised over $1 million in physical donations of food and gifts last year, with YRP also setting a goal of $150,000 in cash donations this year, as it partners with York Region Paramedic Services for the 2024 campaign.
Donations of cash, gift cards, non-perishable food, new toys, new children’s clothing, and hygiene products are needed.
Deputy Chief Alvaro Almeida, who has been involved with the campaign for several years, said he’s seen firsthand the “overwhelming sense of hope” those receiving donations can feel when they’re given their gifts.
“We all know that it’s a time of need for a number of people, with the rising cost of living,” he said. “I can’t tell you how grateful I am to have that experience to be able to provide someone with a gift, from complete strangers from within their community, and knowing it’s going to someone who’s in need.”
The department partners with local organizations like the Salvation Army, Victim Services of York Region, and the York Region Centre for Community Safety, who connect police with people who may need support, which can include victims of crimes, noted Almeida.
Part of the campaign will also see 250 backpacks filled with key supplies that officers can hand out to people in vulnerable situations.
Last year, donations from the campaign helped 6,300 families in need.
“If you’re going to donate to this campaign, think about the difference you can make with one simple act,” said Almeida. “Every little bit helps, and you just don’t know the difference you can make, with one small act of kindness.”
Almeida said officers will be volunteering their time at community events to collect donations at a variety of locations, including Vaughan Mills, at 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Upper Canada Mall, at 17600 Yonge St. in Newmarket, and the Newmarket Soccer Club, located at 621 Newpark Blvd.
Donations can be dropped off at all the YPR district headquarters, including the York Regional Police Headquarters at 47 Don Hillock Dr. in Aurora, and #1 District headquarters at 429 Harry Walker Pkwy. S. in Newmarket.
More information about the 2024 Holiday Heroes campaign can be found online.
