Santa will be making an appearance again this year at Daynes Park, like he did in 2019 when it was the final destination point for their parade. (Rotary Club of Nanaimo Oceanside)

By Jordan Davidson

CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Annual Nanaimo Oceanside Rotary toy drive returns for 22nd year of holiday smiles

Dec 11, 2021 | 6:22 AM

NANAIMO — A holiday staple is returning to the mid-Island.

The Rotary Club of Nanaimo Oceanside will host their 22nd annual toy drive after last year’s events were cancelled due to the pandemic.

The traditional parade through north Nanaimo neighbourhoods won’t return but Veronica Szick, club president, said they’ll still bring all the holiday excitement to Daynes Park on Parkwood Dr. near Uplands Dr. and Hammond Bay Rd. on Saturday, Dec. 11.

“Santa will be there. We’ll be collecting toys and donations and have some stations there for crafts. Hot dogs and cocoa will also be available. We have a 50/50 draw going on, and you can sponsor a teen for $25.”

The event will run from Noon to 3 p.m.

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While teens will be getting gift cards, they’re also asking for the usual donations of cash or new, unwrapped toys for kids under 12.

She said the money raised goes directly to helping local families in need, specifically from School District 68.

“It’s all local youth that’s supported. We do not go outside the community with any of these donations.”

In 2019, they were able to collect over $8,000 worth of toys which helped out over 700 local families.

If you’re unable to make it to the park, you can still donate or sponsor someone by going to their website, oceansiderotary.ca.

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