2006 Christmas Cheer Campaign gears up

The snow is on the way and that's a sure sign that Christmas is not far behind.

For nearly 30 years, a group of volunteers have joined together with churches, schools, corporations, service clubs and public service organizations to carry out a massive food and toy drive for less fortunate families in the Barrie & Innisfil area.

The 2006 "Christmas Cheer" campaign is underway.

Christmas Cheer collection boxes have begun appearing in stores, malls and at area schools in the hope that Christmas shoppers will remember to donate new unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items for families in need of Christmas Cheer.

Coin collection boxes are being displayed at area branches of TD / Canada Trust, Peoples Credit Union, Alcona Shoppers Drug Mart locations, Coffee Time and

Alcona Esso as well as the Royal Bank in Sandy Cove Acres. This year's drive includes many special activities such as a Barrie Colts Christmas Cheer hockey game at the Barrie Molson Centre on December 2nd as well as numerous concerts and special events throughout the area.

People who have enquiries or require assistance can also call 730 - 5999.

This years fundraising target is $130,000 which is used to purchase turkeys, trimmings, produce, a few sweet treats and gift certificates for recipient families. As well, tons of donated non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toys will be sorted and packed at the Barrie Event Centre on December 18th and 22rd, 2006.

Christmas Cheer is a registered charitable organization.