TransLink’s reindeer buses return for the holidays

As the holiday season draws in, so too will Santa’s reindeer — or rather TransLink’s reindeer.

TransLink’s nine reindeer buses are being brought back into the fold in Metro Vancouver. The buses, which are all decorated and named after Santa’s reindeer, can be seen spreading holiday cheer and delivering donated toys from across the Lower Mainland.

These presents are donated through the Toys for Tots program which, for the 38th year, collects toys and cash donations from people in the community.

TransLink says donations can be dropped off at the Customer Service Centre at Waterfront Station, the SkyTrain Customer Assistance Counter at Commercial-Broadway, and Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal. Unwrapped donated gifts are set to be delivered to the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau on Dec. 15, but donations will continue to be accepted at the TransLink Customer Service Centre inside Waterfront Station until Dec. 24.

“We know how much customers love our Reindeer Bus fleet,” said CEO Kevin Quinn. “This is the season to give and make a difference to every child and family through the Toys for Tots program. We encourage everyone to participate and enjoy a ride on the Reindeer Bus or Santa Train.”

The aforementioned Santa Train is returning on Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 and will see families given the opportunity to donate money or a gift in exchange for a Compass DayPass.

TransLink says 93,483 toys and more than $54,320 have been donated since the program’s inception.