BGC Niagara seeks help filling stockings for 190 Fort Erie youth
October 29, 2026 at 3:53 AM
BGC Niagara has 50 more Fort Erie children on its holiday gift list this year, but the charity said the same costs squeezing those families leave its donors less to give.
The charity formerly known as the Boys and Girls Club of Niagara relies on toy drive donations to send each of the 190 children expected at its Fort Erie holiday party home with a gift.
Rising demand for the club’s Kids Zone evening program pushed the expected number of Fort Erie families to 150 this year, up 50 per cent, community engagement manager Kim Harrold told Fort Erie Radio.
“Many people want to help but have less disposable income, and several charities are collecting toys across the community,” said Harrold.
Teenagers aged 13 to 17 face the biggest shortfall in donations. Donors tend to buy toys for infants and toddlers, but the toy drive serves youth aged 6 to 17.
“We want young people of every age to receive something that reflects their interests and makes them feel remembered,” said Harrold.
To close the teen gap, the club is asking donors to consider gift cards to restaurants or clothing stores. Headphones, portable speakers, sports balls, journals and art supplies are also top of the list for older youth.
BGC Niagara on Garrison Road is accepting new, unwrapped toys until Christmas Eve. Credit: Andrew Hawlitzky | Fort Erie RadioResidents can leave donations during business hours at the BGC Niagara club inside the EJ Freeland Community Centre, 1555 Garrison Road, or at Fortius Physiotherapy and Wellness, 660 Garrison Road.
BGC Niagara is also seeking more Fort Erie businesses to host collection barrels.
“Having more places to donate makes it easier for community members to participate,” said Harrold.
Parents can register any child or teen who holds a $20 annual club membership for the party, since the club does not screen for financial need.
Each child at the party sits down to a turkey dinner and takes home a donated gift.
“For some, this may be their only opportunity to experience a traditional holiday celebration,” said Harrold.
Collection barrels stay out until December 14, when BGC Niagara gathers donations to sort for its holiday parties. The BGC’s own locations will accept gifts until December 24.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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