What’s Happening: Salvation Army in Moncton

December is a busy time around The Salvation Army, but even by those standards, The Salvation Army in Moncton had a full (and awesome) day on Saturday.

On that day, the fifth annual Stuff-a-Bus Toy Drive took place, with partners Codiac Transpo and Sobeys along with radio stations XL96 and C103. The drive, which as the name implies encourages donors to stuff a transport bus full of toys, collected approximately $25,000 worth of toys along with $1,300 in gift cards and cash donations.

The day also saw the 25th annual Small Blessings Early Childhood Development Centre Christmas Concert take place. Around 450 people attended the holiday tradition. The event was emceed by parent Sheri Andrews and her co-host Lara Andrews, a member of the four-year-old class. Children enjoyed a visit with Salvation Army mascot Sallyann, staff member Brenda Burris was recognized for 25 years of service and the families of Small Blessings presented Moncton Community and Family Services with 40 toys from the angel tag program to support Christmas Aid.

Also on Saturday was the Santa Shuffle Fun Run. A national event that takes place in 40 Canadian locations from coast-to-coast, Moncton attracted over 500 participants and raised over $20,000, both records for the Moncton event. Check back later this week for a regional wrap-up of Santa Shuffles around the Maritimes, which will include more info on the Moncton event.