Residents at Spencer House, a long-term care centre in west Orillia, received a heartwarming gift today as part of PetSmart Orillia’s annual holiday toy drive.
Stacee Milburn, an image brand leader for PetSmart, visited the care centre on Monday to deliver more than 150 stuffed animals donated by generous customers.
The plush toys, part of PetSmart’s Chance and Friends collection, were purchased and donated through the store’s annual initiative that encourages shoppers to buy a $6 toy to spread holiday cheer. This year, the drive focused on supporting isolated seniors, bringing a touch of comfort and joy to those who may feel lonely during the festive season.
“I had a relative in here many years ago,” said Milburn. “I feel bad for residents who don’t have family who come to visit them, so we thought this might bring them some Christmas cheer.”
The gesture was met with heartfelt gratitude from Spencer House residents.
“This will brighten spirits over the holidays,” said resident Liz Wigg. “Some people don’t have a family at Christmas time, so this might help to make them smile.”
Marlene Stewart, another resident, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the impact the stuffed animals will have.
“For people who don’t have families, it can be kind of lonely sometimes,” she said. “This will be appreciated. The residents will love this.”
PetSmart Orillia’s generosity didn’t stop at Spencer House. The store will also donate stuffed animals to several local organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orillia and District, the OPP Youth Foundation, Green Haven Shelter for Women, and Catulpa Community Support Services.
Milburn expressed her gratitude to customers who have made the program a success.
“People see the difference that it makes,” she said. “They know it makes people happy, and there are people who aren’t as fortunate.”
So far, more than 1,000 customers have contributed to the initiative, which will run until Jan. 2.
