Second Annual Uncle Vinny’s Toy Drive Launches for Families in Need

Uncle Vinny’s Toy Drive in support of The Salvation Army and CTV’s Toy Mountain returns for a second year to make Christmas brighter for families in need in Brampton and surrounding area.  The toy drive is held in memory of Vinny Maan, who passed away three years ago at age 35.

The campaign runs from November 12 to December 10, with a goal to collect 2,000 toys in Ontario for any child from birth to age 16. Last year the toy drive collected 1,700 gifts in Ontario. The toy drive also runs in British Columbia, where Vinny’s parents and his sisters, Pinder and Seema, live.

“We were absolutely amazed at the response last year. We never expected that so many people and businesses would support us in memory of Uncle Vinny. This has been such a healing process for Vinny’s family and friends, and we are so grateful for the goodness that came out of sorrow to give kids a great Christmas,” says Ontario organizer Sandy Mann.

Uncle Vinny loved all things Christmas: the lights, setting up and decorating the tree, shopping, wrapping, giving gifts, and spoiling his nieces and nephews during the holiday season. He enjoyed entertaining and loved to make children smile and laugh.

Toy drive donation ideas include puzzles, kids learning toys, school and colouring supplies, backpacks, arts and crafts, books, hair dryers, makeup, jewelry, hats, gloves and scarves. There are 16 toy drop-off locations at businesses and homes in Cambridge, Milton, Orangeville, Markham, Mississauga, and Brampton. A list of all drop-off locations is available by following @unclevinnystoydrive on Instagram and Facebook.

“A lot of people who donate share similar stories of loss and want to do something in memory of a loved one, so it’s heartwarming to see the impact we’re having not only for children receiving toys, but also to individuals impacted by loss,” Sandy says.