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Local paramedics raise nearly $43,000 through annual Food & Toy Drive

January 9, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By BRIAN LOCKHART

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

The County of Simcoe Paramedic Services has wrapped up its 23rd annual Food and Toy Drive.

Thanks to the generosity of residents, businesses, and community partners, this year’s campaign gathered 8,803 toys, over 8,680 pounds of food, and $42,915.52 in monetary donations to brighten the holidays for local families.

“This drive truly embodies the spirit of Christmas in Simcoe County,” said Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke. “During these challenging economic times, our residents once again rallied around our request to ‘Give a little, help a lot’, opened their hearts and gave generously. Filling ambulances with food, toys, and donations ensures that families across our region can celebrate with joy. Thank you to our incredible residents and volunteers for continuing to showcase the holiday spirit year after year.”

With this year’s totals included, the CSPS Food and Toy Drive has, over 23 years, collected 139,634 toys, 97,650 pounds of food, and approximately $333,757 in monetary and gift card donations to support families across Simcoe County.

“Our paramedics are honoured to lead this tradition each year, and we are especially grateful for the efforts of our Paramedic Services team, their families, and friends who dedicate countless hours to this cause,” said County of Simcoe Paramedic Services Director and Chief Sarah Mills. 

“Their commitment, combined with the kindness of our community, helps to ensure that meals will be on tables and gifts under trees, making the season brighter for thousands of families.”

For 23 years, this Food and Toy Drive has been a cherished tradition, uniting residents in support of those in need.

All donations were distributed to local children and families in need by charitable organizations working in partnership with County of Simcoe Paramedic Services.

Some of the charities supported by the County of Simcoe Paramedic Services Food and Toy Drive include the Salvation Army, WOW Living Bradford, Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions, Barrie Christmas Cheer, Kinette Club of Wasaga Beach, Georgian Bay Food Network, Christmas in a Box, and Innisfil Christmas for Kids.

Several local food banks, including those in Alliston, Angus, Bradford, Clearview, Coldwater, Elmvale, Tottenham, Orillia, and Wasaga Beach, benefited from the food and toy drive. 

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