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Chatham

COVID-19 pumps brakes on toy ride

The Chatham-Kent chapter of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) is encouraging residents to think of those who are less fortunate when Christmas shopping this year, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to hinder donation events.

The GWRRA planned to meet in Blenheim on Sunday and ride throughout parts of the municipality for its annual toy ride. The plan was originally to stop in Chatham to drop off new, unwrapped toys with the Salvation Army and have some refreshments outdoors to kick start their Christmas fundraising activities. However, those plans came to a halt on Saturday after the provincial government put social gathering restrictions in place across Ontario.

Director Marina Thomson and her husband John organized this year's ride and she said it broke her heart to cancel the event.

"I was heartbroken about it because it's the first time that we've ever had to cancel the ride," she said. "The food drive has been going on for approximately 18 years and the toy ride has been going on for about 38 [years]."

Thomson said although they cancelled the ride, approximately 60 bikes stopped at the meet-up location in Blenheim throughout the day to drop off donations to support the Chatham-Kent Salvation Army.

"With the toys, we took them to the Salvation Army and dropped them off there for their gift baskets," said Thomson.

As for the cash donations received, Thomson said they will go out in November to purchase a variety of toys for donation.

She said they really appreciate the donations that were brought in and the volunteers who stayed behind to help deliver the donated items on Sunday. Thomson said they are hopeful that they will be able to hold the toy ride again next year.

For now, there's uncertainty surrounding holiday events as the COVID-19 pandemic lingers.

"I suspect this is the beginning of the challenge The Salvation Army will face this Christmas as we try to help people," read a Facebook post by the Salvation Army Chatham-Kent Ministries.

In July, the Chatham Goodfellows also had to call off some of their events due to the pandemic.

"I encourage everyone to please drop off [toys]. If they're buying for their children or grandchildren or nieces and nephews to please remember the Salvation Army," said Thomson. "Reach into your hearts and donate."

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