Shelburne Fire Department 11th Annual Toy and Food Drive kicks off

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Shelburne & District Firefighters Association has kicked-off their 11th annual Toy and Food Drive fundraiser. 

The local fire department began collecting donations of non-perishable foods and toys for the drive on Nov. 18 and will holding a number of collection events up until Dec. 18. 

“We help the community in times of trouble, somebody calls 9-1-1 and we're there for them giving it out 100 per cent. With the Toy and Food Drive, people also need our help so again we're there to do our part,” said Mike Morrell, coordinator for the annual event and Captain at the Shelburne & District Fire Department. “We do it this because we know there's a need, and we just want to give back to the community.” 

Each year the Shelburne Fire Departments Toy and Food Drive fundraiser collects food donations for the Shelburne Food Bank, Shepherd's Cupboard, and the toys for Dufferin Children & Family Services (DCAFS). All donations made stay within the community. 

Morrell said through the event last year they were able to donate toys to a total of 400 families at DCAFS.

A week into the month long fundraiser, the fire department is seeing a good beginning turn out for donations. 

Some of the specific items they are looking for this year include kid snacks, juice boxes, pasta and pasta sauce, cold cereal, canned veggies and fruit, Kraft Dinner, peanut butter, and feminine hygiene products. 

Donations can be dropped off at the Shelburne Fire Hall, Thursday and Friday nights from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Shelburne Fire Department will also be holding collection events. They will be out at No Frills on Nov. 27 and Foodland on Dec. 18.