County Paramedics’ annual toy and food drive has kicked off with remarkable community support across Simcoe County, showing once again how local first responders extend care beyond emergency services.
The initiative, now in its 21st year, has transformed ambulance stations into collection hubs where residents can drop off new toys and non-perishable food items that will support families facing financial pressures this holiday season.
“What began as a small staff effort has grown into something that touches thousands of families across our region,” said Andrew Robert, primary care paramedic and one of the drive’s longtime coordinators. “Last year we helped over 4,200 children receive gifts they might otherwise have gone without.”
Collection bins at all 25 Simcoe County ambulance stations are already filling up just days into the campaign. The familiar red and green decorated boxes have become seasonal landmarks for many residents who make annual contributions part of their holiday traditions.
The timing couldn’t be more critical. According to the Simcoe County Food Bank Association, demand for emergency food support has increased 32% compared to this time last year. Economic pressures, including rising housing costs and inflation on essentials, have pushed more working families to seek assistance.
Paramedic Leah Sampson, who has participated in the drive for eight years, notes the emotional aspect of their work. “We’re often meeting people during their worst moments. This drive lets us connect with our communities in a completely different way. The gratitude we see from both donors and recipients reminds us why we chose this profession.”
The campaign benefits from strategic community partnerships. Local businesses including Thompson’s Furniture, Orillia Hardware, and Georgian Bay Chevrolet have set up satellite collection points, expanding the drive’s reach beyond ambulance stations.
“Our customers appreciate having a convenient drop-off spot while they’re out shopping,” said Margaret Thompson, owner of Thompson’s Furniture. “We’ve had to empty our collection bin twice already this week, which speaks to how generous this community really is.”
County officials note that the paramedics’ initiative aligns with broader municipal poverty reduction strategies. Last month, Simcoe County Council approved a $175,000 funding increase for emergency food security programs in recognition of growing community needs.
“Our paramedics see firsthand the connection between poverty and health outcomes,” said Warden Basil Clarke during a recent council meeting. “Their holiday drive isn’t just about seasonal cheer – it’s addressing social determinants of health that affect families year-round.”
For the paramedics organizing the drive, the effort has personal significance. Many recall their own experiences responding to homes where economic hardship is evident.
“I’ve been to calls where you can tell there just isn’t enough to go around,” said Robert. “A parent might be hesitant to call an ambulance because they’re worried about the cost, even when OHIP covers it. Those same families shouldn’t have to worry about whether their kids will have something to unwrap on Christmas morning.”
The drive accepts new, unwrapped toys suitable for children from infants to teenagers. Food donations focus on non-perishable items, with particular need for protein sources like peanut butter and canned meats, which are among the most expensive grocery items for families on tight budgets.
Interestingly, the initiative has become something of a friendly competition among paramedic stations, with teams tracking donation volumes and celebrating milestones. The Orillia station currently leads the county, having collected over 600 items since the drive began last week.
“We’ve got bragging rights from last year, and we’re determined to keep our title,” laughed Sampson. “But honestly, every station is pushing hard because we know the need is everywhere.”
Community response this year appears particularly strong following reports from Statistics Canada showing that one in four Canadian children now lives in poverty – a figure that has worsened since the pandemic.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s latest community needs assessment identified food insecurity as affecting nearly 17% of households in the region, with rural areas facing additional challenges related to transportation and access to services.
Residents have until December 18th to drop off donations at any ambulance station. Paramedics will then sort, package, and distribute items through established partnerships with social service agencies, ensuring gifts reach children before the holidays.
“This isn’t just about toys or food,” Robert emphasized. “It’s about dignity. Every parent wants to provide for their children, especially during the holidays. If we can help ease that burden even a little, we’ve done something that matters.”
For those unable to drop off physical donations, the paramedics’ association has established an online giving option this year, with funds going directly toward purchasing needed items for age groups that typically receive fewer donations, particularly teens and infants.
As evening falls, paramedics continue answering emergency calls while collection boxes steadily fill – a reminder that for these first responders, community care takes many forms, all year round.
