NEWS RELEASE
NORTH EASTERN ONTARIO FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICES
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The Cochrane District EMS (Emergency Medical Services), along with staff from the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board (CDSSAB), is inviting everyone to their 10th Annual “Fill an Ambulance” Toy Drive taking place in Timmins on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021. Donations of new, unwrapped toys, gifts or cash donations can be made from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in front of the main entrance doors of both Canadian Tire and Walmart.
The community is encouraged to come out and help fill an ambulance with gifts for children and youth aged 0 to 18 years old. There is always a demand and short supply of baby and teen items. The type of gifts most needed and requested are items for babies, such as diapers, wipes, receiving blankets, bottles, onesies, and toys for infants and babies, as well as items for tweens and teens, such as electronics, hygiene and beauty products, hoodies, backpacks, books, board games, and sporting goods.
“We hope to fill the ambulance with new, unwrapped toys or donations for our community’s children and youth who are in need. With the impacts of COVID-19, vulnerable children, youth, and families have needed our support more than ever these past two years,” said Derrick Cremin, Cochrane District EMS Commander. “Our community has always answered our call and helped us reach and surpass our goal.”
The collected items from this event will be delivered to North Eastern Ontario Family and Children’s Services (NEOFACS). The donations will be distributed through NEOFACS’ Christmas Angel Campaign to children and youth, throughout the region who are in need this holiday season.
The support the campaign receives makes a significant difference, right here in the community. The campaign is more important than ever since the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to make things challenging for kids and create additional stressors for families.
“We are so thankful for the generosity from our community and to the Cochrane District EMS and CDSSAB for the work that goes into organizing and hosting this annual event,” said Carole Hart, Program Supervisor for Special Projects at NEOFACS. “We know that times are tough, but the spirit of the holidays is realized through the thoughtfulness and generosity of many. Our Christmas Angel Campaign is about more than gifts under the tree, it's about providing children, youth, and families in our community with hope and support during difficult times.”
With some additional precautions, the community can participate in making the holidays brighter for those in need. COVID-19 protocols will be in place during the event to safeguard everyone.
For more information or for anyone who is unable to attend the Toy Drive but would still like to donate, please contact Derrick Cremin, Cochrane District EMS Commander, at 705-268-7722 ext. 287 or [email protected]. To learn more about the NEOFACS Christmas Angel Campaign, please visit www.neofacs.org/christmasangel.
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