Kinley’s 7th Annual Toy Drive
Kinley Hildebrandt is embarking on her seventh year collecting donations for the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital.
Diagnosed with the rare liver disease, biliary atresia, when she was only two and half months old, Kinley and her family spent many months between Saskatoon and Edmonton hospitals. It was during one hospital stay at two-years-old that Kinley was given a donated toy, brightening her day. Candis noticed there wasn’t always toys, or even crayons, to give during stays and that ultimately led the inspiration for the toy drive.
Over the years, Kinely’s toy drive has gone from strength to strength. “Our first year of doing the toy drive, I sorted and packed everything up in half an hour. Last year, it took nine hours to sort, purchase more items, and load up the donations! We even have some people who will shop deals all year to donate. We are just so grateful to everyone!” shared Kinley’s mom, Candis Hildebrandt.
Each year Kinley and her mom receive a list of items from the hospital that they are in need of. The public can choose to buy something off the list or make a monetary donation. For those who make a monetary donation, Kinley and her mom use the money to purchase items from the list that are still needed.
“We truly appreciate any donations. One colouring book will give one child something to pass the time. We just ask that items be new in original packaging, no clothing, magazines, balloons or plush/stuffed animals. We always take pictures and share in Kinley’s Facebook group after the toys have been sorted and we are ready to deliver, so everyone can see all the wonderful donations,” explained Candis.
This year, Kinley is aiming to make it her biggest drive yet! “We are also teaming up with Kindersley EMS for a ‘Fill the Ambulance’ day! This will be on April 23, from 1-4 p.m. in the Peavey Mart parking lot. The public can drop by with their donations and for anyone stopping by we have a little contest for a chance to win some goodies!” shared Candis.
She also explained this year others are pitching in to help collect toys. “We are also very lucky to have some help this year–the SLC at the Kindersley Composite High School is collecting toys from April 1-30, so a huge thank you to them! Items will be delivered to the hospital on May 9th. The hospital is always so excited for our donations. I know right now there are a lot of admissions, so this will probably be very needed.”
Donations can also be dropped off at Kindersley Mainline Monday to Friday 8-5, and Saturday 9-3.
Monetary donations or questions can be sent to cmhilde20@gmail.com.
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