Bring A Toy
Give Some Joy
where did we start
Bring a toy, get a drink?
CHM Communications annual toy drive actually got its start in a bar. In 1982, while enjoying the company of his wife and friends at Christmas time, CHM owner Sandy Milroy's thoughts turned to children who don’t receive gifts during the holiday season and decided that he wanted to help. Then and there, he began the collection and, with money contributed by other patrons, bought a few toys and gave them to a church. But he thought he could do more. The following year, he collaborated with bars and hosted events. The concept was this: anyone who brought in a toy received a free drink.
What we do now
In the early 1990s, Sandy’s toy collection moved to the LCC skating rink, and people have been showing up, toy in hand to skate with Santa ever since. This festive tradition invites the community to donate new, unwrapped toys in exchange for a fun, family-friendly skate session with Santa Claus himself. CHM is incredibly proud to turn over $40,000 to $60,000 worth of toys every year. The toys collected are then donated to the Montreal Diet Dispensary, which distributes them to local children and families in need, helping to ensure a brighter holiday season for all.
“Our ‘Skate with Santa’ event has become a cherished tradition over the years, and we’re so proud to continue this unique way of giving back to our community,” said Sandy Milroy, President and CEO at CHM Communications. “For over 40 years, we’ve seen the incredible impact this event has, and we’re grateful to work with the Montreal Diet Dispensary to make the holidays extra special for those who need it most.”
How can you help
Donate a new unwrapped toy in any of the following ways
Concordia Sports Physio
Concordia Sports Physio has boxes provided to them for toy collection. Make your way to their establishment during their opening hours to drop off a toy to donate.
Skate With Santa
Bring a toy, give some joy - come skate with Santa at the Lower Canada College Glenn Chamandy Arena on Sunday, December 8th, from 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM. Santa will be on the ice wearing his skates so bring the whole family for some fun!
LCC Toy Drive
If you have a child in elementary school at Lower Canada College, they have the opportunity to participate in their yearly toy drive. Simply have your child bring a toy to school during the toy drive period.
Nettoyeur Écologique Royal
Just like Concordia sports, NDG's Nettoyeur Écologique Royal also has a box provided to them for toy collection. Drop a toy off during their opening hours to help make someones holiday more joyful.
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Upcoming events
Skate with Santa - Sunday, December 8th, 2024 - 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Toys MUST be new and unwrapped
Complimentary refreshments and snacks will be provided
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Free skating only: No sticks, pucks or balls