There will be no cheer at Port Moody’s pier this Saturday after all.
A drive-thru toy drive scheduled for Rocky Point Park has been cancelled.
The event was supposed to be a safe reworking of the annual Holiday Cheer at the Pier community event that heralds the start of the Christmas season in the city. But tightened public health orders to limit the transmission of COVID 19, including the banning any sort of public gatherings or events as well as social gatherings, forced it to reconsider.
“While the cancellation of this event is disappointing for everyone involved, the health and safety of our residents and our employees must come first,” said a statement released by the city.
Mayor Rob Vagramov expressed some frustration as the event was revised to allow people to stay in their cars to enjoy a wave from Santa and the illuminated pier as they dropped off their donations.
“I hope these rules become more precise,” he said.
Instead, residents are being urged to take their donations of unwrapped new toys or non-perishable food items at city hall (100 Newport Dr.), or the recreation complex (300 Ioco Rd.), where marked bins will be located outside the main entrances. Donations will be accepted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., beginning Dec. 1 until Dec. 21.
As well, items can also be dropped at the Inlet Centre fire hall (150 Newport Dr.) or the police headquarters (3051 St. Johns St.) during business hours before Dec. 15.
All items go to Share Family and Community Services.
