Holiday with a Hero is going to make at least 80 children really happy. The day begins early on November 21, when eighty children from across Simcoe County will be paired with a local hero, including firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and CFB Borden personnel, for a fully funded shopping spree. The only rule? The child has to also buy a gift for themselves. “Everyone involved with this event - the heroes, the volunteers, community partners - talk about the joy they experience firsthand,” said Brian Shelley, United Way Simcoe Muskoka chief executive and philanthropy officer. “I had several police officers tell me last year that it was one of the most rewarding days of their careers,” Shelley said. To add to the day of joy, the shopping spree is followed by a grand procession of emergency vehicles leading to the Innisfil YMCA. Participants will have a festive breakfast, face painting, and cookie decorating. Meanwhile, a team of volunteers gift-wraps each child’s purchases, ensuring every family leaves with a personalized gift sack filled with surprises. In its sixth year, the United Way Simcoe Muskoka is now only $2,000 away from fundraising all the associated costs for this year’s event. “Every donation makes a difference and goes directly towards creating what we hope will be a truly memorable experience for these young people,” added Shelley. “We are thankful that so many in our community are supporting this event once again.”
