A community-wide toy and food drive will be sweeping across Chatham-Kent once again.
Officials with the community drive are asking people to put gifts, such as toys, non-perishable food items, and clothing, on their porches at noon on November 19, 2022, and volunteers will pick them up for those in need this holiday season.
"I think this year is going to look different," said Co-Organizer Brent Wilken. "We're prepared for this. I'm excited about the new possibilities this year, now that things are back to normal."
Last year, the fundraiser collected between $1.5 million and $2 million, according to previously published reports.
"We have new people involved this year, including some schools and businesses," said Wilken.
Organizers kicked off their pre-planning meeting on Tuesday, August 30, at Techumseh Park in Chatham. Wilken said organizers are getting an earlier start to the fundraiser this year, adding that the meeting was one of the most diverse groups yet.
"We are once again set to show the world what an incredible community Chatham-Kent is and highlight the wonderful people within it," read a post from The Gift CK Facebook page.
Anyone interested in volunteering can visit the website for more information.