TIMMINS -- It was a day filled with Christmas spirit Saturday, as several services and community groups in Timmins held holiday events across the city.

Pandemic restrictions had people re-imagining traditional events, like the Timmins Police Service's annual toy drive, and starting a new local tradition.


Mountjoy neighbourhood christmas parade 2020
The small parade toured the Mountjoy neighbourhood and handed out candy canes to families. Dec. 6/20 (Sergio Arangio/CTV News Northern Ontario)
 

Santa came to town

With the jolly elf's usual parade cancelled this year, the Mountjoy Fire Station decided to hold a community drive-by as a thank you for people's generosity during this time of hardship.

"They're always helping us, giving food and everything else this year," said Captain Ted Marcotte.

"People have lost their jobs, less hours. It's time to show that the (city) services, we can give back to the communities as well."

The drive-by featured Santa Claus himself — kept safe from COVID-19 on his float — and a band of merry volunteer firefighters.

The small parade toured the Mountjoy neighbourhood and handed out candy canes to families.

Marcotte said he hopes it becomes an annual event.

 

Christmas carolling constable

While Santa patrolled the streets, Timmins police aimed to spread some holiday cheer with a twist on its annual 'Fill a Sleigh' toy drive.

Being unable to gather donations inside The Bargain Shop as usual, police opted for an outdoor event — featuring festive music from one of its officers.

"This year people are in need and unfortunately a lot more in need, so it's great because we're going a little bit bigger this year," said Const. Caroline Rouillard, who offered her musical talents for the event.

By mid-day police said the drive already exceeded last year's total of around 3,500 toys, with at least 5000 and hoping for over 7,500 by the end of the day.

 

Helping the food bank and local business

Meanwhile in the South Porcupine neighbourhood, a holiday vendor market doubled as a food drive, by asking for food and monetary donations for admission — all going to the South Porcupine Food Bank.

By the day's end, the market gathered several boxes and grocery bags filled with food, plus over $250 in cash donations.

Organizer Amelia Perritt of Strike a Match Candle Co. said it's what the giving season is all about.

"I think it's really important this time of year to support the less fortunate and you get to support local businesses at the same time," said Perritt.

"It's just really good to spread Christmas cheer."