Erin Haluschak
Record staff
While the space may be a bit smaller than in previous years, the need for new or gently used toys, bikes and cash remains the same.
Bill Kennedy, president of Santa’s Workshop in the Comox Valley, said the quality and quantity of toys produced from the workshop never changes, despite the location.
“Last year we helped 355 families, gave away 1,500 gifts and 230 bikes. We have around 30 volunteers per day for preparation,” he noted.
For the 2016 Christmas season, Santa’s Workshop will be located at 3573 South Island Highway - formerly the location of Ace Liquidation. The building is on the west side of the Island Highway, just south of Beachwood Road.
Hours of operation will be 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
This year, the workshop will be open to receive new, gently used toys and cash donations Nov. 1.
Gift donations can be dropped off at the building and will be kindly accepted by one of Santa’s Elves.
To be eligible to use the Comox Valley Santa’s Workshop, boundaries are Oyster River on the north and Cook Creek to the south.
To make an appointment and view and receive gifts for children, register by calling 250-897-1994 anytime after Nov. 1.
Grandparents Day will be held this year on two days - Dec. 14 and 15.
The last day for the workshop to receive used toy donations will be Dec. 9, as it takes time to clean, fix and process these items.
Kennedy adds he is thankful to individuals, service clubs and businesses who collect and donate toys, gifts and cash to the organization.
For more information or to volunteer, visit santasworkshopcomoxvalley.com.