The Salvation Army’s Ontario Distribution Centre Plays a Vital Role during the 28th Annual CTV News Toronto’s Toy Mountain Campaign

Have you ever wondered how all those new, unwrapped donated toys make it under the tree for Christmas morning? No, it’s not Santa, or his elves…let’s unwrap the importance of the many helping hands at The Salvation Army’s Ontario Distribution Centre (ODC) that makes holiday magic happen.

Serving as the hub for Toy Mountain, the ODC sends toys and gifts to Salvation Army locations across the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario. Last year, 60,000 children received toys that were sorted and packaged at the ODC.

Pat LaBuick, the ODC’s Director of Procurement, is grateful for the efforts of all Salvation Army mission partners who volunteer their time during the holiday season when children’s Christmas wishes hang in the air.

“With the tireless support of all the organizations, families, schools, churches, community groups and businesses giving of their time at the ODC, we can make Christmas brighter for children longing for a special gift under the tree,” Pat says.

“This year we’re expecting a large demand for gifts as families grapple with the daily challenge of making ends meet. Without the support from generous donors, children might wake up to nothing on Christmas morning, so the efforts of our mission partners are deeply appreciated.”

The Toronto branch of investment firm Morningstar brought 40 of its staff to lend a hand in sorting and packing toys at the ODC. Catherine Leonard, a business analyst at Morningstar, handpicked The Salvation Army as the recipient of the company’s community outreach program because of the organization’s mission of giving hope to those in need.

“Our employees are thrilled to assist in sorting and packing toys, knowing they are helping to bring joy to kids at Christmas. More people are going through tough times and The Salvation Army has a history of assisting anyone in need, not only at Christmas but all year round,” Catherine says.

Greg Nembhard, the ODC’s Senior Operations Manager, says volunteerism is crucial in ensuring toys get into the hands of children.

“Our mission partner commitment is the backbone of delivering these toys to children. We appreciate everyone’s role in bringing hope to children,” Greg says.

Assistance is still needed to sort and package toys at the Ontario Distribution Centre before Christmas. For details or to sign up, reach out to Julie Santilli at Julie.Santilli@salvationarmy.ca.

You can drop off new, unwrapped toys at Toy Mountain donation bins at malls in the Greater Toronto Area. A full list of locations is available at www.toymountain.ca. Financial contributions can also be made through Salvation Army Christmas Kettles, by scanning the QR code on the Toy Mountain donation bins, or at salvationarmy.ca.

Join our Army of Givers and help The Salvation Army deliver the magic of Christmas to individuals and families facing financial hardship this holiday season.