The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Hamper drive got a big boost from Sunday's record-setting Sarnia Sting Teddy Bear Toss game.
The 18th annual event was the best ever with a crowd of over 4,000 throwing nearly 3,600 stuffed toys on the ice at the SSEC.
Captain Nancy Braye says hundreds of needy families will benefit.
"It was our first experience going to a Teddy Bear Toss here in Sarnia, so we were overwhelmed," says Braye. "Over 3,500 were collected and just seeing the excitement in the arena was wonderful."
The Salvation Army distributed over 1,100 food hampers and 800 toy baskets last year.
Captain Braye says donations have been steady so far this year but there is still a need, particularly for boys and girls aged 10 to 13.
Unwrapped toys for the annual CHOK Gift of Christmas can be dropped off at Sarnia McDonald's restaurants, here at Blackburn Radio at 1415 London Rd. or at the Salvation Army on Confederation St.
Distribution is planned for the week of December 18.
