Toy drive in memory of Richmond's 'Secret Santa' returns for 16th year

The annual toy drive in memory of Richmond's Victor Ghirra is returning to an in-person event this year.

This is the event's 16th year being organized in memory of Ghirra, known as the "secret santa" of Richmond, for quietly donating thousands of dollars worth of toys for Children's Hospital during the winter years.

The theme of the toy drive is winter wonderland and donors are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy and enjoy snacks, beverages and a photo booth at Riverside Palace Hall on Dec. 10 from 12 to 2 p.m. 

Harvey Kooner, organizer of the event, said they are hoping to benefit 16 organizations to help kids celebrate Christmas this year.

The newest organization is Keian's Holiday Wish Toy Drive, which was set up after a young Surrey boy named Keian lost his fight to leukemia in 2014 at the age of six.

"His hopes and deniers were that every kid found joy during Christmas time and so the RCMP made him an honorary member before he passed away," said Kooner.

"Being the event the 16th year just made sense to reach out and help more people."

Kooner told the Richmond News they are partnering with local organization Kids Play for this year's toy drive.

The local organization, he said, helps youth get back on the positive track around sports and their goal aligns with the toy drive of helping kids as well and what Ghirra would have wanted.

"We want to keep (Victor's) memory going, keep helping more and more families and children across the Lower Mainland and the province," said Kooner.

“There were so many heartwarming stories shared about (Victor's) life, the great person he was, but the one that touched me the most was finding out that Victor had quietly been purchasing thousands of dollars in toys for Children’s Hospital, and donating them to needy children who weren’t as lucky as his own."

The toy drive is taking place at the Riverside Palace Hall parking lot at 14431 Knox Way in Richmond.