TTC Stuff-the-Bus toy and gift drive returns this weekend

With the holidays quickly approaching, TTC employees are hosting their annual toy and gift collection campaign, Stuff-the-Bus, supporting thousands of children and families in need.

This weekend, TTC buses will be parked outside Walmart stores in Etobicoke, Agincourt Mall, and Sheridan Mall collecting new, unwrapped toys and gifts for all ages. Members of the public are encouraged to help us fill a TTC bus with gifts and spread holiday cheer to kids and teens across the city.

TTC Stuff-the-Bus toy drives this weekend will be held outside Walmart stores between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the following locations:

• Sat., Nov. 25 only – Sheridan Mall, 2202 Jane St.
  
  
• Sat., Nov. 25 and Sun. Nov. 26 – Smart Centres Etobicoke, 165 North Queen St.
  
  
• Sat., Nov. 25 and Sun., Nov. 26 – Agincourt Mall, 3850 Sheppard Ave. E.

“I encourage all Torontonians who are able, to donate to Stuff-the-Bus this weekend, and help to bring joy to children and families this holiday season,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “Thank you to the incredible TTC employees who are giving their time and energy to this generous initiative that gives so much to children and teens across our city.”

“I want to thank the TTC employees who volunteer their time every year to organize this event,” said TTC Chair Jamaal Myers. “I encourage everyone to come out and support this event, and help the TTC make the holidays a little brighter for children and teens.”

“I am so proud of our Recreation Council and all of our employees who embody our core values, donate generously, and volunteer their time to help the communities we serve every day,” said TTC CEO Rick Leary. “Stuff-the-Bus is an annual employee-led initiative that has been going strong for 16 years. I want to thank everyone who makes this event and so many others possible with their generosity and community spirit at the holidays and all year round.”

This year, toys, gifts and money collected will be distributed amongst several local community organizations including Parkdale Peace Project, SickKids, Abuse Hurts, Community Place Hub, Dovercourt Boys & Girls Club, and Progress Place. Those who wish to donate are encouraged to consider items suitable for children between 7 to 15 years old. The TTC has also partnered with Toronto Police, who will be collecting toys and gifts for their Cram-A-Cruiser toy drive this weekend.

Gift ideas for babies and young children include toys, books and clothing. For tweens and teens (10+), consider hoodies, sports gear, curling irons, makeup kits, electronics, books, board games, scarves, gloves and gift cards.

Last year, through the generosity of Torontonians, TTC employees collected more than 2000 toys and gifts for families with kids.