MEDIA Advisory - Local Toy Drive Donates Record-Breaking Number of Christmas Gifts to The Salvation Army

SURREY, BC, Dec. 15, 2025 /CNW/ - Uncle Vinny's Toy Drive is celebrating its fifth year by donating 1,700 toys to The Salvation Army, their highest amount ever raised. The toys were collected through donation bins placed at a number of local businesses throughout the Lower Mainland, at the first ever Uncle Vinny's Memorial Basketball Tournament, and through funds donated directly to the charity.

Started in 2021 in memory of beloved family member, Vinny Maan, the toy drive was created by his family to honour his festive spirit and love of the holidays. All toys collected go to The Salvation Army Boundless Vancouver Toy Shop where families can come in and select the toys they want for their children directly from the shelves.

"It's given us purpose. It's helped us turn our grief into some hope and some positivity for children who otherwise would not have been celebrating." – Pinder Saran, Vinny's sister and organizer of the toy drive.

We invite the media to join us. Photo-ops and interviews available.

Where: 17965 98 Ave. Surrey, BC
When: Monday, December 15, 2025 / 3 pm
Who:  The Salvation Army spokespeople, Maan family members

This year the toy drive also expanded with new fundraisers starting in the Okanagan as well as in Calgary, Alberta.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882. In Bermuda, the Army has been at work since 1896. Today, it is the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country, offering hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and Bermuda and in more than 130 countries around the world.

We believe in the transformative power of a helping hand--empowering people to move forward, no matter where they're starting from. With open doors, open minds, and open hearts, The Salvation Army provides practical, personalized support to those facing poverty, homelessness, addiction, food insecurity, and other complex challenges.

Our services include hunger relief through food banks and meal programs; shelter and housing support; addiction rehabilitation; long-term and palliative care; and life-skills development such as budgeting and cooking. We also offer children and youth programming, including after-school activities, camps, school nutrition, and Christmas assistance such as food hampers and toys.

Supported by generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, The Salvation Army meets people in their moment of need--and stays with them for the journey ahead. When you give to The Salvation Army, you're investing in renewed hope, restored dignity, and a stronger future for overlooked individuals and families in your community. 

SalvationArmy.ca

SOURCE The Salvation Army British Columbia Division

Tamara Randlesome, [email protected], [phone]; Pinder Saran, [email protected], [phone]