Richmond RCMP Toy Drive helps bring presents to families in need

Santa’s uniform may look a little different this weekend, as RCMP officers in Richmond gathered on Saturday to help bring Christmas cheer to families in need.

In the 8th Annual Richmond RCMP Toy Drive, people were encouraged to come support the Richmond Christmas Fund, a program by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG.)

Locals were encouraged to “stuff the police car” with new toys, or to bring in money to donate.

8th Annual Richmond RCMP Toy Drive Saturday November 19th; Come out and support families in need in Richmond https://t.co/dXfAeAcHoY #RichmondBC pic.twitter.com/RzgDFbQK3d

— Richmond RCMP (@RichmondRCMP) November 18, 2022

The fund is based on the idea of “Making Santa Proud,” and providing Richmond residents with toys, gifts, and vouchers for food.

“The Christmas season is a special time of year, a time to celebrate with loved ones and create memories that will last forever. Unfortunately, not everyone can share in the holiday spirit. Many Richmond residents don’t have the financial means to prepare a festive meal, let alone purchase gifts,” The RCRG said on its website.

In support of the cause, C/Supt. Dave Chauhan took the plunge in a dunk tank, where locals could attempt to hit the target to drop the chief in the chilly water.

A cold first dunk for Chief Superintendent Chauhan. Not to worry though, we have plenty of warm towels and an extra large, steaming cup of coffee on hand so he can warm-up afterwards. Way to go Chief! pic.twitter.com/ljzZf1Nwj7

— Richmond RCMP (@RichmondRCMP) November 19, 2022

“Being plunged into cold water on an equally cold day in November is not something everyone would be willing to do…This demonstrates how committed Dave is to the community of Richmond and the depth of his support for the Toy Drive,” Insp. Michael Cohee said in a news release.

Mounties say officers have dedicated countless hours to the events over the years.

“The driving force of their dedication is the children and families in need in our community but the spirit that keeps them going is the generous support of the community,” Chauhan explained.

“This is all about community and in Richmond we are privileged to have great community support. Regardless of the size of the donation, we want to thank everyone from our community who continue to make the Toy Drive such a success,” Chauhan added.

‼️ TODAY‼️

The @RichmondRCMP Toy Drive is back for another year of festive fun & community spirit! Today, bring a new, unwrapped toy to Lansdowne Centre, or make a minimum $10 donation, and get a bag of mini-donuts! All proceeds support the Richmond Christmas Fund pic.twitter.com/fOJQrExex6

— Rmd Cares, Rmd Gives (@rcaresrgives) November 19, 2022

In 2021, the toy drive saw donations of a ton-and-a-half of toys, and $22,400 toward the Christmas Fund.

“Each year, the Christmas Fund distributes grocery vouchers to individuals and families in need. Children 11 and under also receive toys, books, and sports equipment, while youth aged 12 to 17 are given gift cards,” the RCRG explained.

Although the event happened on Saturday, locals can still make donations at multiple locations, including Richmond Public Libraries.

“We’ve put the word out to Santa: if he’s ever recruiting new elves, Richmond is full of amazing candidates,” RCRG said.