Make A Difference In Whitby This Holiday Season

Small acts of kindness make a big impact during the holiday season. From donating toys to children in need, to giving warm socks to the homeless, to making sure local families have a warm holiday meal, Whitby is coming together to make a difference. 

Here are some ways to give back:

1.    Operation Cozy Toes and Toy Mountain

Spread warmth and joy by supporting Operation Cozy Toes and Toy Mountain. Donate new socks for community members experiencing homelessness and new, unwrapped toys for CTV’s Toy Mountain in support of the Salvation Army. Donation barrels are available across Whitby through December 9. The campaign will wrap up with a community celebration at Celebration Square (405 Dundas St. West) on December 9 from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring holiday performances, children’s activities, and a live CTV broadcast. Special thanks to the Downtown Whitby BIA, Town of Whitby, Whitby Public Library, and Salvation Army for their support.

2.  Stay Cozy and Buy a Hoodie for a Cause

A new hospital is coming to Whitby – and while a hospital can take years to build, the planning starts now. We've partnered with local business Vintage Apparel Co. to launch a limited-edition hoodie. Each hoodie purchase directly supports the new future hospital. A large portion from every sale is donated to the Lakeridge Health Foundation. Order yours today at whitby.ca/NewHospital.

3.    Stuff-a-VW Taos Toy Drive

The Town and Owasco Volkswagen are running a “Stuff-a-VW Taos” toy drive to help local families in need. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Iroquois Park Sports Centre (500 Victoria Street West) now through Friday, December 19 and help fill the holiday-themed Taos in the lobby. The Salvation Army will distribute contributions just in time for Christmas.

4.    Support Feed The Need

Last year, Feed the Need Durham partnered with the Town of Whitby to open a new market-style food bank to provide fresh, frozen, and non-perishable food items to individuals and families in need. Support the food bank by donating funds online or dropping off non-perishable food donations at Iroquois Park Sports Centre lobby in Whitby during facility operating hours. A list of the most needed items can be found here. If you need support, sign up to access the Market Food Bank.

5.    Donate to Operation Santa Paws

To make this holiday season a little brighter for the animals in Whitby Animal Services’ care, staff are collecting donations in boxes located near the main entrances of Town Hall, the Operations Centre, Whitby Fire Headquarters, Whitby Civic Recreation Complex, McKinney Centre, 55+ Recreation Centre, and the Brooklin Community Centre and Library. Drop off your donations at the location most convenient for you between now and December 12. Animal Services is especially grateful for donations such as dog and cat beds, large dog chews like bully sticks, dog collars (martingale brand), small to medium dog harnesses, cat dry food, and cat toys. whitby.ca/AnimalServices

6.  Support Local and Shop Where You Live This Holiday Season

Tis’ the season to explore local, shop local, and love local. Visit the Town’s two historic downtowns to experience great shopping, craft breweries, arts, culture, and unique culinary creations. Be sure to check out Whitby’s Food Guide when planning your family get-togethers or holiday parties. Visit our new web page to explore your options and plan a daycation in Whitby. 

Looking for something fun to do this holiday season? We’ve got you covered and rounded up the Town’s top activities to help get you in the festive mood.

Thanks for making Whitby an exceptional place to live. 

For more information on these events and other holiday activities, visit whitby.ca/Events.