Local Non-Profit ‘A Little Relief’ Launches Christmas Toy Drive to Support Local Families

A Little Relief, a Guelph-based charity operating since 2016, has launched its annual Christmas Toy Drive with support from several long-time community partners, including Caught in Guelph. The organization runs two major yearly programs — Easter Baskets and the Christmas Adopt-A-Family initiative — and the toy drive plays a key role in helping families during the holidays.

Supporting Families Who Fall Through the Cracks

The toy drive focuses on households that are unable to access assistance through larger organizations such as The Children’s Foundation or The Salvation Army. Many families do not qualify for those programs or receive limited support, especially when it comes to teens. Since some agencies stop providing Christmas aid after age 11, older children and youth often go without. A Little Relief steps in to help fill that gap.

Teen Gift Suggestions

• Teens are typically the most challenging group to shop for, but simple, practical items make a significant difference. Suggested donations include:
• Gift cards: Shoppers Drug Mart, Dollar Tree, Food Basics, Zehrs, Tim Hortons, McDonald’s
• Entertainment gift cards: Movies, bowling, Roblox, Xbox, PlayStation
• Personal care items: Cosmetics, grooming kits, perfume or cologne
• Clothing: New hoodies, socks, hats, gloves
• Any age-appropriate gift that a teen would appreciate

Every donation supports a youth who may otherwise receive very little during the holidays.