For the past number of years, Westergard Motors in Drumheller has been a collection point for toys for those less fortunate and again in 2024, that is the case.
Last week, Westergard’s started their Annual Toy Drive in support of the Salvation Army Christmas Hamper program. Tiffany Andrew has organized this for years and shares they are looking for toys and items for kids of all ages. “It’s what gets registered at the Salvation Army. so they have come up with a list that we do have on our website and on our (showroom) door. It is literally kids from infants to eighteen years old.” With inflation this year, the need seems to be a bit more than it has been in years past.
The tougher ones to buy for are the older kids but Tiffany shares what they have requests for. “We find that, quite often, they request gift cards. That may be the Xbox gift cards, Sephora, the Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart, any of those.”
Westergard’s also works with community groups to help fill the trucks like the Drumheller Minor Hockey Association. “We look forward to it every year. They usually do it down at the Arena. They collect all the toys and then the teams bring them in.” Drumheller Minor Hockey has games this weekend on Friday and Saturday as well as Friday night so if you’re going to the game, bring a new unwrapped toy with you.
The timeline seems to be coming up sooner than usual according to Tiffany. “This year, the Salvation Army has asked them to be dropped off at the Salvation Army on (December) 9th so they can sort through and go through their lists, to do their distribution on the 17th. Everything seems to be pushed up this year. I get a little worried that we won’t get those trucks filled but I know with this community, we will.”
Although Tiffany is worried, she knows the Drumheller Valley will be there to help, as it always is. “That’s the best part about Drumheller. As worried as I can be, I know by the 9th of December, those trucks will be filled.”
If you have any questions about the Annual Toy Drive, reach out to Westergard Motors at 403-823-2500. Please drop off your new unwrapped toys to the showroom before December 9th.
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