Late last week, toys and gift cards were provided to 13 families through the 2nd annual Toys 4 Kids campaign of the Rocky Mountain Rotary Club.
That's nearly double the number of families it assisted last year at this magical time, and was made possible by incredibly generous donations from residents and local businesses.
Club president Ryan Baum says he continues to be in awe of Cochrane's community spirit. He says people stepped forward to contribute to Toys 4 Kids on top of supporting amazing things being done by the Cochrane Activettes and others to spread the Christmas Spirit.
He says it's a challenging time for all people right now.
"We're in the unique world where it could be the neighbour right next to you that has a home, has cars, and has a family, but yet are in a difficult position right now where they can't afford some of the things they need," says Baum.
"It's been a very emotional and powerful campaign to see what's happening and how this community steps up to support one another at a very high level."
The Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre played an important role by allowing the Rotarians to collect toys and donations in its main foyer. Cochrane Toyota provided a Tundra truck that overflowed with contributions. It came at a time when the recreation centre needed overflow parking to accommodate three major events, including Cochrane Ringette's Bob Campbell Classic. Nicole Kimpton, of Cochrane Ringette, assisted by inviting members of the 52 teams participating in the tournament to make a contribution.
Mili Palacios, the club's marketing director, says special mention to the significant contribution of Rare Oilfield Services and OSY Rentals Ltd, Save-On-Foods, Half Hitch Brewing, and Ink'd Graphics all deserve special mention for their contributions.