VOS THEATRE’s December contribution was a lot of fun to source. We chose the Salvation Army Toy Drive as our Community cause this month because joy on the face of a child is a gift to us all (and we wanted to test out all the cool new fun things on the shelves).
Board Member Marlena Sculthorpe and her boys presented over $500 in toys to Mark Chard, a firefighter in Port Hope who helps collect and deliver toys to the Salvation Army each year.
“The Port Hope Firefighters were the original organizers of the Santa Claus parade. Years ago at the end of the parade they gave each child a loot bag.
Mark Chard
A few years ago we were doing fundraising and I suggested sponsoring a couple families for Christmas. Then I thought why not do a toy drive to help more. I noticed the drop boxes that used to be at some businesses were gone. So we started our collection locations.”
Mark and the Port Hope Firefighters set up drop off locations for toys each year to make donating effortless. Then Mark delivers all donations to the Salvation Army to add to their annual toy drive. Mark and his family have a box on their porch at his home, 76 Ward St, in Port Hope. Then there’s Dreamer’s Cafe on Walton St., Evolution Hair Salon on Ontario St. in Port Hope and of course the Port Hope Firehall is accepting donations.
Mark regularly checks the locations and delivers to the Salvation Army for distribution.
“I just like the thought that families will have a nicer Christmas thanks to the generosity of others.” We do too, Mark.
There’s still time to donate to the Toy Drive and if you are wanting to stay clear of the shopping part, cheques are gladly accepted.
VOS Theatre 