29th Annual Toy Drive for Needy Kids – Wrap-up event
On February 19, 2026, members of Council 5135 and the Waterloo Region community gathered at the Columbus Conference Centre to celebrate the wrap-up of our 29th Annual Toy Drive for Needy Kids. It was a time of gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment — a powerful reminder that the first principle of the Knights of Columbus is Charity.
A growing need — and a growing response
Brother Martin Hickey opened the event by asking Brother David Haid to speak. David recognized some of the dedicated volunteers who staffed countless shifts throughout the year in the Toy Warehouse. From receiving and sorting donations to keeping the toy warehouse organized as toys flowed in and out, their steady commitment keeps this mission moving.
This year, more toys came in than last year — yet the need in our community was even higher.
Martin Hickey spoke candidly about the serious shortage experienced at one point this season. Just a week before the Stuff a Cruiser campaign, the shelves were in desperate shape. In response, $7,000 worth of toys were purchased on a Thursday morning — and by noon, they were gone.
Community leaders show their support
We were honoured to welcome Bardish Chagger, Member of Parliament for Waterloo, who also brought greetings from MPP Catharine Fife. Ms. Chagger highlighted the inclusive nature of the Toy Drive, noting that it gives families in need the “opportunity to give a gift year round — whether it’s a birthday or cultural event.”
Her words beautifully captured the spirituality and inclusion demonstrated by the Knights — ensuring that dignity and joy extend beyond Christmas morning.
Debbie Chapman from the City of Kitchener added, “This is really important work that is being done. Sad to think that the needs are increasing.” Her comments echoed what many in the room already knew — the Toy Drive is not simply helpful, it is essential.
Partners in service
John from the Waterloo Region Auxiliary Police reminded us, “This cause is near and dear to our hearts.”
Through the Stuff a Cruiser program — led by the Auxiliary — and with collection support from Walmart, Raffi Jewellers, and other community locations, thousands of toys were collected.
Mike from the Waterloo Fire Department shared how firefighters collect toys and donations during the Santa Claus Parade and maintain collection bins at each station 24/7. He noted how inspiring it is to see the community rally together during the parade and at events such as the GHD dinner.
Don Nicol, President of the Waterloo County Shrine, thanked Swan Dust Control for donating a van to support the Toy Drive’s logistics, adding, “It’s been a wonderful ride for us and very enjoyable.”
Derek Hines of Boutique Catering, who works out of the Columbus Conference Centre and provided food for the event, raised over $5,000 in support of the Toy Drive.
Sponsors who stepped up
The generosity of our sponsors was extraordinary this year. Martin named just a few of them but they included, The Noteworthy Singers, Waterloo Rec Men’s Hockey League, GHD, Teledyne Dalsa, Stelco Electric, TA Appliance, Gore Mutual. Even Amazon is now supplying toys monthly.
These sponsors, along with countless individual donors, made it possible to respond when the need was greatest.
Reaching families all year long.
The Toy Drive continues to expand its impact:
• 1,000 toys will go out at the end of Ramadan for Eid celebrations.
This is no longer just a Christmas initiative — it is a year-round ministry of hope.
And please note that we have many, many sponsors that aren’t listed. Waterloo Region truly steps up for the Toy Drive.
The impact in numbers
Sydney and Julie from Family & Children’s Services shared a moving letter of thanks, pictured here. Their message was a powerful testament to what this community has accomplished together:
All about the kids
Chris Kleisath reminded us that the first principle of the Knights of Columbus is Charity — and that charity extends across the spectrum of all people.
“The mission,” he said simply, “is all about the kids.”
And that mission continues.
Three years ago, Karen Redmond described the Toy Drive by saying, “We are the glue that holds the community together at Christmas.”
Today, that glue holds year-round.
As Council 5135 reflects on 29 years of service, we give thanks for every volunteer, sponsor, partner, and donor who makes this work possible. The need may be growing — but so is the compassion of this community.
Together, we will continue to serve.
