Sharing Holiday Smiles: BLIA Toronto Annual Toy Drive Brings Joy to Children in Need

December 22, 2025

In the spirit of the season of giving, the BLIA Toronto English Subchapter once again brought warmth and joy to the community through its annual Toy Drive, held over the weekends of December 13 and 20. Donated to the Peel Regional Police Miracle on Main Street charity program, the initiative helped ensure that children and families in need could experience the happiness of the holiday season.

Over the two weekends, BLIA members, families, and volunteers came together to donate brand-new toys. The collection area quickly filled with colorful gifts, reflecting the generosity and compassion shared bythe community. Over the years, the Toy Drive has become a cherished annual tradition, offering people of all ages a meaningful opportunity to give back and make a positive difference during the festive season.

The event saw active participation from BLIA Toronto English Subchapter President Tyrie Norries, Vice President Juyenty Lim, Advisor Martyn Knowles, and dedicated committee members. Martyn shared that each donation brought a sense of joy and surprise, noting that watching the collection grow was a heartwarming reminder of the kindness and goodwill within the community.

With the guidance of the Venerables and the strong cooperation of BLIA Toronto members, the Toy Drive was smoothly organized from start to finish. Donated toys were carefully sorted and prepared to ensure they would reach children who would benefit most. On December 22, the gifts were officially delivered to the Peel Regional Police, who coordinated their distribution to families and children across the region.

Constable Jennifer Bissell, Charity Coordinator for Peel Regional Police, shared that this year marked the 33rd consecutive year of the Toy Drive, highlighting the long-standing commitment of community partners. She emphasized that toy donations are especially meaningful during the holidays, bringing joy and comfort to families facing challenges. Last year alone, more than 16,000 toys were distributed, with even greater outreach anticipated this year.

She also expressed sincere appreciation to BLIA and the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, noting that the success of the campaign relies on the generosity of caring community members.

Through this collective effort, the Fo Guang community once again transformed kindness into action—spreading hope, warmth, and smiles, and reminding us that even small acts of giving can create lasting holiday memories for children and families alike.

BLIA Toronto English Subchapter President Tyrie (second from right), accompanied by his wife and daughter, presents the donated toys onbehalf of the Subchapter to the Peel Regional Police, received by Jennifer Bissell, Charity Coordinator.
Donation boxes fill with a wide variety of toys and stationery, including plush toys, model cars, and board games.
Donated to the Peel Regional Police Miracle on Main Street charity program, the initiative helped ensure that children and families in need could experience the happiness of the holiday season.
Fo Guang members and families joyfully participate in the Toy Drive, bringing children along to share in the spirit of giving.

An assortment of donated toys and stationery—ranging from plush dolls to model cars and board games—ready for distribution to children in need.
Children join the volunteers insorting donated toys, learning the values of sharing and compassion through hands-on participation.
Donation boxes overflow with thoughtfully selected toys and school supplies, reflecting the generosity ofthe community.