Santa’s helpers drives big red trucks Nov. 24

GRAVENHURST — The jolly old man in red is set to descend on Gravenhurst soon and Gravenhurst firefighters are anxiously preparing to help him out once again this year.

The Santa Claus Parade, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce is set to go on Saturday November 24th, and your local firefighters will be leading off the parade once again with their 3rd Annual Toy Drive in support of Santa and the Salvation Army.

In addition to leading the parade with their buckets to collect cash to put on the parade, they will be collecting new unwapped toys during the parade.

“All kids need to have a present under their tree on Christmas morning, so we’re helping Santa and the Salvation Army by collecting new, unwrapped toys along the parade route. The Salvation Army will be distributing the toys later as part of their annual Christmas efforts, after checking with Santa of course, to see whose been naughty or nice,” said Danielle Ryan, a Gravenhurst firefighter who is spearheading the departments toy drive once again this year.

“Each year, the drive becomes more and more successful thanks to the community’s support, and we’re hoping the collection this year will be at least as successful as last years,” said Ryan.

Firefighters will also be out in advance of the parade this year collecting toys.

“We’ve been invited to the “Ladies Night” at Stedmans on Thursday November 15th from 6-8pm, and will be at both Canadian Tire and Stedmans on Saturday November 17th to give people who can’t attend the parade the opportunity to participate in this year’s toy drive,” she added.

“The need for toys at Christmas seems to be ever present, but items for older kids are just as important as toys for the younger children,” Ryan explained. “All donations are welcome, and 100 per cent of the giving’s go directly to the Salvation Army in Gravenhurst. It’s nice to know we are helping out our neighbours right here in town.”

For more information contact the fire department at 705-687-3414, or go to www.gravenhurstfire.com