AS the holiday season has arrived, Mike’s No Frills and Port Dover KIA are once more joining forces for a gift drive to benefit local families in need. The two businesses have collaborated on their “Give to your soul, Help a child Smile” campaign for 13 years, donating all gifts collected to The Salvation Army.
The gift drive started on Nov. 24 and ends on Dec. 18. Donations are accepted at Mike’s No Frills, 87 Thompson Dr., and Port Dover KIA, 167 Hamilton Plank Rd.
This year, organizers ask donors to also consider gift ideas for older youth and teens, such as school supplies, fun socks, and personal hygiene items (such as body wash, deodorant, lip balm, razors, nail polish, lotion, and body spray).
Kelly Fulsom, owner of Port Dover KIA, said The Salvation Army does excellent work managing the distribution of gifts it collects.
“We’ve been inside The Salvation Army’s distribution centre and met many of its hard-working volunteers. They really know what they’re doing there,” he said.
The Salvation Army is seeing an increased need in the community this year and is currently serving about 500 local families.
“We’re grateful there are so many people passionate about helping others around the holidays here in Port Dover and area, where our community always comes out to support local causes. Your donations make a difference,” Mr. Fulsom said.
Mike’s No Frills owners Mike and Christina Ramirez said their partnership with Port Dover KIA helps them reach more families together than they could separately.
“Our collaboration has amplified the effect of our efforts, making the gift drive a success each and every year,” Christina and Mike shared. “But our success depends on local support, and we’re incredibly grateful for those residents who want to help.”
In recent years, the gift drive has collected hundreds of items. Mr. Fulsom said each one helps someone who needs it.
“We’d like our donors to know their donations are putting smiles on people’s faces and making Christmas mornings more magical for people in our backyard,” he said.
Originally published November 27, 2024
