More than 500 children received toys last Christmas through Morden Christmas Cheer and that number is expected to rise again. As the cost-of-living climbs, the local non-profit is already gearing up to meet growing demand, with a little help from a beloved summer tradition.
“We had 384 hampers last season..and within those hampers, we got toys for 526 kids.”
- Chelsey Delaquis, board member with Morden Christmas Cheer.
On Thursday, July 31st, Morden's Stardust Drive-In Theatre will once again host Christmas in July which serves as an annual fundraising event supporting Morden Christmas Cheer. Admission to the movie night is by donation, and every dollar collected goes toward helping local families in the 2025 season.
A summer night with holiday spirit
“This is all put on by Stardust,” Delaquis explained. “A few years back, they were fundraising to keep their theatre open and running. They made an agreement between the families that rent Stardust that if they could stay open, they’d give back for as long as they could.”
This year’s featured movie is The Polar Express, a heartwarming animated Christmas film rated G, suitable for all ages.
The story follows a young boy who embarks on a magical train ride to the North Pole, discovering friendship, bravery, and the true spirit of Christmas along the way.
Gates open at 8:30 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk, or around 10 p.m.
“This is purely their [Stardust Drive-in Theatre's] volunteer time. They actually reach out to us and say, ‘We’d like to do this again this year.’”
- Chelsey Delaquis, on the generosity of Stardust Drive-in Theatre.
What to donate and why it matters
Attendees are encouraged to bring cash donations, unwrapped toys, books, or non-perishable food items with expiry dates past January 2026.
Morden Christmas Cheer uses monetary donations to fill specific needs for children of different ages. In-kind donations are welcomed as well.
“Cash is always awesome,” said Delaquis. “Then we can pick up gifts that we need for certain age groups.”
She highlighted the work of longtime volunteer Lawanda, who carefully assesses donations and shops to fill in any gaps.
“We also take donations of unwrapped toys and books, and food items that go into our hampers,” Delaquis added. “It’s incredible what people are willing to give.”
A team that gives year-round
The organization is run by a dedicated team of around 20 board members, many of whom have served for years.
“For me personally, it’s about giving back, especially to kids. Christmas brings a lot of positive memories and nostalgia. We want to make sure others can have that too.”
- Chelsey Delaquis, board member with Morden Christmas Cheer.
The number of families needing support continues to grow, often due to job loss or sudden changes in financial circumstances. Every donation helps fill that gap.
Stardust Drive-in Theatre: A community champion
Delaquis expressed deep appreciation for the Stardust Drive-In and the team behind the scenes.
“This is purely their [Stardust Drive-in Theatre's] volunteer time. They actually reach out to us and say, ‘We’d like to do this again this year.’”
- Chelsey Delaquis, on the generosity of Stardust Drive-in Theatre.
“They’re setting aside a whole extra evening from their summer just to give back,” she added. “I can’t say enough good things about the Stardust Drive-In Theatre and the families that run it.”
Thursday’s event is a great opportunity to enjoy an outdoor movie, support a local cause, and experience the power of community generosity in action.
With files from Ty Hildebrand