Residents that are in the giving spirit this holiday season can head on down to Moose Jaw’s Canadian Tire on Thursday and donate to Toy Days, as it returns for its 8th year.

The Salvation Army has teamed up with Canadian Tire once again to help those families in need this Christmas.  

“It’s very exciting heading into Christmas and it’s probably one of our busiest times of the year,” says Lieutenant Lester Ward, Pastor and Director of Community and Family Services for the Salvation Army. “We’re not able to do what we do within the community without the great support of sponsorships and organizations like Canadian Tire and we’re so thankful for them.” 

The event kicks off on Thursday as soon as Canadian Tire opens, with the donation bin available for toy drop-offs until Saturday afternoon.  

Mix 103, 800 CHAB, and Country 100 will be live on location throughout the three days to share stories and get the community involved in this year’s Toy Days.  

There are toys and games for young boys and girls, but there are also gift cards and gaming accessories that can be purchased and donated for the older kids. The toys will then be added to hampers that will include food, clothes, and other things that families might need. 

“We’re acceptable to anything that they’re willing to give. Every year we have a little bit of a challenge with the 9-12 age group, which seems to be the most challenging area of toys. However, we would be willing to accept anything that anyone is willing to give to support such a great cause within this community.” 

All the donated toys will go towards the Salvation Army’s Christmas hampers for those families and children struggling this Christmas.  

“These toys that we collect throughout the year will be set up at a toy shop at our church. Through our hamper and interview process families that have children that may need some support during the Christmas season will have an opportunity to shop for free at our church location on Thatcher Drive.” 

“They will be able to choose and select toys for their children for Christmas and being able to see the emotion and the happiness behind those moments is what really makes Christmas, Christmas.” 

The Salvation Army is accepting applications and conducting interview processes for hampers until Dec. 2. If you're looking to apply to receive hampers of food toys, clothing, and much more you can call the front office of the Family Services building next to the Salvation Army at 306-692-5899.