Toys, food, and warmth: A season of giving in Emery Village
By Shannon Delmarco
The holidays always seem to bring out the best in Emery Village, and this year is no different. As neighbours decorate their homes and families begin planning festive traditions, our community is once again rallying together to make sure every child feels included in the joy of the season.
Toy drives across the area continue to brighten the holidays for families who could use a little extra support. A new, unwrapped toy might seem small, but to a child, it can mean excitement, surprise, and a moment of pure holiday magic. Local groups such as the Elspeth Heyworth Centre for Women, the Salvation Army, TPS 31 Division, the Emery Village BIA, and our neighbourhood fire halls are all collecting toys and donations, helping to spread cheer where it’s needed most.
This year, residents can also drop off new toys and non-perishable food items directly at 31 Division. These donations will be distributed by WAES (Weston Area Emergency Support) and the North York Harvest Food Bank, ensuring families across our area receive support throughout the holiday season.
For Emery Village businesses, the Emery Village BIA is offering donation pick-ups from December 9th to 15th. Simply call 416-744-7242 or to arrange a convenient time, email: info@emeryvillagebia.ca
There is also an important addition to our season of giving: the 2025 Winter Coat Drive, presented by The Children’s Breakfast Club and supported by the Emery Village BIA and Safe Storage Depot. With rising costs affecting so many families, too many children are heading to school without proper winter clothing. The coat drive is asking for clean winter items — coats, scarves, mittens, gloves, boots, and new socks — in both new and gently used condition. It’s a thoughtful way to keep kids warm while also giving new life to items that might otherwise sit untouched in a closet.
Donations for the Winter Coat Drive can be dropped off at Safe Storage Depot, 1945 Wilson Avenue, Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s a convenient, central spot for anyone in Emery Village who wants to help.
This season doesn’t need to be extravagant to be meaningful. It’s about sharing what we can, looking out for our neighbours, and remembering that the small things — a toy, a warm coat, a pair of mittens — can mean everything to someone else. Together, we can help make the holidays brighter, warmer, and filled with community spirit for families across Emery Village.