Giving a little extra this Christmas

Story & video: Shauna McCarthy
There’s nothing quite as exciting for a child then receiving a gift from Santa himself. And for the children who receive little to no presents during this festive time of year, a small gift can go a long way.
Coffee Cultures in downtown Oshawa is doing their part to bring cheer to the less fortunate children of Durham Region this Christmas. Hosting their second annual toy drive, the popular coffee house is matching each unwrapped gift brought in with a coupon for a free medium coffee. Starting Friday, Nov. 19 the decorative Christmas tree set up in the front window display is open for present drop offs right up until Dec. 17. The presents can be for any age and will go to the Durham Children’s Aid Society, who have been protecting children for over one hundred years. Coffee Cultures is located at 22 King West, Oshawa.

This is not the only toy drive happening in our area. The Durham Regional Police Service food and toy drive kicked off earlier this month and will continue to Dec. 21. At their 2010 launch at the Whitby Shores Public School, the students had no problem filling Santa’s sleigh with food and toys. This is their 22^nd annual drive event, with last year’s being their most successful yet. Unwrapped toys or food can be dropped off to any police station in Durham Region or any fire hall in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax or Clarington.