Richmond RCMP's 'stuff the cruiser' toy drive launched

There was no shortage of supporters at the launch of Richmond RCMP’s 4^th annual “stuff the cruiser” Toy Drive and pancake breakfast in aid of the Richmond Christmas Fund.

On a crisp and sunny Tuesday morning at the RCMP’s No. 5 Road headquarters, Richmond’s top cop, Supt. Will Ng, was joined by fellow Mounties, RCMP mascot Safety Bear and Christmas Fund co-chairs Wayne Duzita, Michael Chiu and Rob Howard.

Every year, the RCMP takes over a section of the parking lot at Ironwood Shopping Plaza, where people are asked to donate an unwrapped toy into a police cruiser.

In return, people who donate will get a pancake breakfast, cooked up by volunteers, including local Mounties.

You can also enjoy the same breakfast with a minimum $5 donation.

This year’s drive takes place Saturday, Nov. 17, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Each year, the Christmas Fund distributes grocery vouchers to hundreds of individuals and families in need. Children 12 and under also receive toys, books, and sports equipment, while teenagers are given gift cards.

The program is supported by nearly 200 volunteers, who contribute well over 3,000 hours annually. Hundreds of other Richmond residents, businesses, and community groups donate cash and toys.

For more information, go online to RCRG.org/WhatWeDo/RCRGPrograms/richmond-christmas-fund.