Toy Drive 2024 wrap-up – 25,000+ toys distributed
The Waterloo Knights of Columbus Council 5135 has successfully wrapped up its 2024 Annual Toy Drive, marking another year of incredible generosity and community support. Operating 365 days a year, the toy drive ensures that thousands of children across the region receive gifts, joy, and hope during the holiday season and beyond. The Toy Drive volunteers, sponsors, program partners met at the Columbus Conference Centre on January 27th to review the year, and acknowledge the tireless efforts that make the Toy Drive happen each year.
A year of dedication and hard work
Martin Hickey kicked off the wrap-up meeting highlighting the people and groups impacted by the Toy Drive. This year, the toy drive worked with 35 different agencies, including schools, hospices, hospitals, churches, and other community organizations. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers, who work six days a week in our warehouse, we were able to distribute approximately 25,000 toys to children in need. These volunteers handle everything—from sorting and organizing donations to making Saturday pickups and drop-offs.
Martin highlighted that “The need for support has never been higher, as economic challenges, rising immigration, and the housing crisis have left more families struggling. With over 800 additional families added to our recipient list this year, the toy drive has stepped up to fill the gap.”
Community support & partnerships
This year’s Toy Drive saw incredible community support, with notable contributions, sponsorships and partnerships with local sports teams, businesses, and law enforcement:
- John Wayne Goodman, from the Waterloo Regional Police Service, and his colleagues spoke about the Stuff-a Cruiser campaign, which collected over 6,300 toys for the drive.
- The KW Titans joined us for the first time this year, adding to the ongoing support from the Kitchener Rangers and the KW Siskins.
- Rogers Communications played a key role in helping connect partners to the initiative.
- Derek Hines provided a special contribution, supplying over $3,500 worth of toys and food, as well as lunches for volunteers.
- Starbucks became a new sponsor, with 22 stores joining the effort, adding to a growing list of generous sponsors.
Messages of encouragement
Throughout the event, community leaders and ambassadors emphasized the vital impact of the Toy Drive:
- Catherine Fife, MPP, highlighted the growing economic pressures, stating that “1 in 4 people are now accessing food banks in Ontario, and schools are stepping in to fill the gap.” She praised the Knights for their work, noting, “You are trying to fill the gap of giving children joy—don’t underestimate the impact.”
- Fitzroy Vanderpool, our Toy Drive Ambassador and former boxing champion, who dressed up as Santa and personally delivered toys to children. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “I may be a boxing champion, but nothing beats the joy these kids bring when they come up to me, excited to receive these toys.”
- Al Wood, past Grand Knight, spoke about the upcoming Valentine Charity Casino, a key fundraiser that helps sustain the toy drive. More details on the event can be found here.
Looking ahead
The 2024 Toy Drive demonstrated once again that the spirit of giving is alive and well in Waterloo Region. As we close out this year’s initiative, we extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who made it possible.
With demand continuing to grow, our work is far from over. The Knights of Columbus Toy Drive operates year-round, and we welcome continued support to ensure that no child goes without a gift and a smile.
Thank you to everyone who contributed!
Interested in donating or volunteering?
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