First Annual Christmas Toy Drive Held in Memory of Digby Girl
DIGBY, N.S. — The spirit of generosity and remembrance filled the air in Digby this weekend as community members came together for the first annual Christmas Toy Drive held in memory of a beloved local girl whose kindness and bright smile left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
The event, organized by family members, friends, and volunteers, was created to honor the life and legacy of the young Digby girl, whose compassion for others—especially children—continues to inspire acts of goodwill throughout the community. What began as a heartfelt idea to remember her has now grown into a meaningful tradition aimed at spreading joy during the holiday season.
Held at a central community location, the toy drive saw an overwhelming response from residents across Digby and surrounding areas. New, unwrapped toys, books, games, and winter gifts poured in throughout the day, filling tables and bins faster than organizers anticipated. Many donors also contributed gift cards and monetary donations to ensure children of all ages would be remembered at Christmas.
“This isn’t just about toys,” said one organizer. “It’s about continuing her legacy of kindness and making sure no child feels forgotten during the holidays. She loved Christmas and had a heart for helping others, and this is our way of keeping that spirit alive.”
Volunteers of all ages stepped up to help sort and organize donations, while others shared memories and stories of the girl whose life the event commemorates. Several attendees described her as cheerful, thoughtful, and always willing to lend a helping hand—qualities they say made the toy drive a true reflection of who she was.
Local businesses also played a key role, offering drop-off locations, sponsoring refreshments, and helping spread the word in the weeks leading up to the event. Their support, organizers said, demonstrated the strength of Digby’s close-knit community and its commitment to caring for one another.
Parents who attended with their children said the event also served as a valuable lesson in giving back. “It’s important for kids to understand the power of kindness,” said one resident. “This toy drive shows them how one person’s life can inspire so much good.”
All donated items will be distributed to local families in need through community organizations and support services ahead of Christmas morning. Organizers emphasized that confidentiality and dignity for recipient families remain a top priority.
Given the success of the inaugural event, plans are already underway to make the toy drive an annual tradition. Organizers hope it will continue to grow each year, reaching more children and touching more lives while keeping the young girl’s memory alive.
As the day came to a close, volunteers stood surrounded by stacks of donated gifts—each one a symbol of love, remembrance, and community spirit. For many, the event was a powerful reminder that even in loss, kindness can bring people together and create something beautiful.
