Crystal Ridge Dream Center spreading ‘extra love’ at Christmas

More than 300 kids from Greater Fort Erie will have their Christmas brightened by the Crystal Ridge Dream Center and all the generous people that donated to their recent toy drive.

Through a pre-registration, there are 280 children who will receive gifts through the initiative, as well as 55 who are enrolled in youth programs at the centre, said Anna Vetere, one of the co-founders of the non-profit organization.

Families submitted a wish list for kids up to age 18, she said.

A relatively new organization established about five years ago, Vetere said the entire team is proud to make an impact for needy residents in town.

“It’s an honour to be able to serve the community this way,” she said Monday night at the Fort Erie Walmart as she shopped for specific items on some of the families’ lists.

“At Christmas time, it’s great to spread some of that extra love around,” she said, expressing gratitude for the “tons of businesses” and service clubs who pitched in with toys and financial contributions.

“It really is truly a community effort,” she said.

There are a number of other local organizations hosting toy drives this Christmas season, including the Fort Erie Kinsmen Club and its partnership with Salvation Army, as well as St. Vincent De Paul, and grassroots organizations like Team Frosty.

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