CCTVMEDIUM NEWS York Regional Police officially kicked off the 29th Annual Holiday Heroes campaign on November 15 at Upper Canada Mall, marking the start of a month-long community drive to support infants, children, families and seniors in need across the region. This year’s campaign runs from November 15 to December 19, 2025.
The launch event featured remarks from representatives of York Regional Police, Upper Canada Mall, the Salvation Army, Town of Newmarket Mayor John Taylor and York Region Paramedic Services Chief Chris Spearen. Families attending the event enjoyed hot chocolate, coffee and cookies, free children’s activities, police-themed giveaways, a live choir performance and more.
For nearly three decades, the Holiday Heroes campaign has helped provide essential winter items and holiday gifts to vulnerable community members. In 2024 alone, 6,440 families affected by crime or other tragic circumstances received support through the program. Since its inception 29 years ago, the campaign has assisted more than 109,000 individuals and families.
This year, York Regional Police aims to raise $250,000 in monetary and gift card donations. Community members, businesses and partners are also encouraged to donate new toys, new children’s clothing, non-perishable food items, infant formula, diapers, hygiene products, transit passes and other essential goods.
Organizers emphasize that what makes the Holiday Heroes campaign unique is that every donation directly benefits people living in York Region—neighbors, friends and classmates within the community.
York Regional Police is calling on everyone to “be a holiday hero this year” and help make the season brighter for those who need it most.（LJI by Jennifer)
