Mississauga Toy Mountain Recipient Grateful for Support During Christmas

Sally treasures a Christmas season made brighter thanks to The Salvation Army Mississauga Community Church and the CTV Toy Mountain campaign because her four children wake up to discover gifts under the tree on Christmas morning.

As a pharmacy assistant earning minimum wage, Sally says there is not much left at the end of the month after paying bills and buying food, and for the last four years, Toy Mountain and The Salvation Army have helped with bringing a little Christmas magic to her children.

“Toy Mountain makes my kids so happy at Christmas because all they talk about is Christmas gifts. It is fun to watch them open the toys and receive something they have wished for,” Sally says.

Grateful for the joy contained in the presents and stocking stuffers, Sally dreams of one day being able to pay it forward to people who are in her current situation.

“I hope to help others as I’ve been helped. Donating food items to those in need means a lot,” she says. “I am eager to give back to the community and The Salvation Army that supports me through tough times.”

Last year, The Salvation Army in Mississauga assisted struggling families grappling with the high cost of living and 3,500 children received gifts from Toy Mountain – making their Christmas morning memorable.

Joel Binner, Director of Community and Family Services for the Salvation Army in Mississauga, expects a similar number of children to receive toys this year as more and more families face economic pressures.

“There are so many people that have extra expenses at Christmas, and we’re grateful that we are able to provide not only a gift, but comforting reassurance and positivity when people reach out to The Salvation Army,” Joel says.

“We’re a beacon of hope year-round and Toy Mountain is a first step for many when coming to us for assistance.”

Toy Mountain donation boxes across the Greater Toronto Area are waiting to be filled with new, unwrapped toys that will brighten Christmas for children this year. Toy drop off locations and online donations can also be made at toymountain.ca.