While the Town isn’t holding its annual community events such as the Tree Lighting and Christmas in the Square, we can still come together as a community this holiday season to support each other by:

Donating Food and Toys to Those in Need

Whitby Fire and Emergency Services is partnering with Durham Regional Police Services (DRPS) on its annual Food and Toy Drive. Now through Christmas Eve, residents can drop off non-perishable food items and unwrapped toys at any fire station or DRPS division in Whitby, including DRPS’ Regional Headquarters. Please wear a mask and maintain physical distancing when entering the buildings to make your donation. Items collected will go to local charities, such as Whitby Salvation Army, for distribution to those in need. For more information visit DRPS.

Supporting Local Business, #shoplocalwhitby

Did you know there are approximately 2,400 businesses located in Whitby, employing approximately 43,300 people? When you choose to shop local or work with self-employed people you are choosing to invest in your local economy. You are keeping the charm of our Town alive and keeping food on your neighbours table at the same time.

From now to December 18, during the Town of Whitby and Downtown Whitby Business Improvement Area (BIA)’s ‘12 Days of Local Holiday Shopping’, watch the Town’s social media channels for unique gift ideas available for purchase virtually from local businesses right now. For more information, visit whitby.ca/shoplocal.

If there were ever a time to shop local and support local businesses this is it. Whitby has everything you need, right here at home. There are well-known local charms and hidden gems all around and now is the time to explore them, online or through curbside pickup. Shopping local in Whitby is easy with the free online mapping portal “What’s Open Whitby”. From restaurants to retail shops and everything in-between, the portal lists the more than 200 businesses that are open in Whitby right now, whether it’s for curbside pick-up, contactless delivery or in-store service. whitby.ca/whatsopen

You can support real people by sharing your favourite local business recommendation with @TownofWhitby on Twitter or Facebook using the hashtag #shoplocalwhitby.

Giving a Pet a Present

Whitby’s Animal Services team cares for approximately 150 dogs and 200 cats per year. To help them, Whitby’s Animal Services has created an Amazon wish list filled with items to help staff care for lost pets and homeless animals in their care. To participate visit the wish list to browse requested items, add an item to your cart and click checkout. Animal Services address will be automatically loaded as the shipping address and the package will be delivered to them. If you prefer to drop off a donation in person you can leave it on the table outside the front door at 4680 Thickson Road North, Whitby during the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. whitby.ca/animalservices

If You Are in Need

If you find yourself in need this holiday season, there are a number of community resources available to help such as food banks, supports for victims of violence, shelters and more. Visit durham.ca/communityresources.

The holiday’s are about community and hope. In a year when we need the spirit of the holidays more than any other, we can come together to support local businesses and our community. Thank you in advance for your generosity.