Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey Bruce is hoping area residents will pick up an extra gift or two while shopping to help stock the organization's annual Christmas Store.
The store allows CMHA Grey Bruce clients facing financial hardship to get holiday presents for their loved ones at no cost. Those gifts are then wrapped by a team of volunteers.
Ahead of the store opening next month, donations of new, unwrapped gifts suitable for people of all ages and interests are needed. Items suggested for donation include toys, books, warm clothing, personal care products, household supplies, and accessories, as well as wrapping paper, gift bags and tape.
"Every gift donated makes a difference and helps someone experience the joy of giving during the holiday season," said Kim McMahon, CMHA Grey Bruce's human resources coordinator.
Donations can be dropped off at the CMHA Grey Bruce Administration Office at 1101 2nd Avenue East in Owen Sound between 8:30 a.m. and noon and 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. The deadline to donate is November 30.
The Christmas Store will open on December 2 at 396 14th Street West in Owen Sound.
"It's wonderful to see people picking out gifts for their loved ones and knowing they'll have something special to give at Christmas," added McMahon. "It's a simple idea, but it means so much to the people who take part."
