Toronto Police officers from 22 Division are collecting toys and food in their annual Cram A Cruiser drive to help needy children and their families.

Officers on November 7 were parked outside a Loblaws grocery store, at 300 The East Mall, with a vehicle that within hours was almost filled with goodies for many at-risk children.

Helpful shoppers arrived with bags of items that were placed in a police van.

“You have to help the kids at this time of the year,” one woman said as she gave a bag of items to Const. Jas Mrahar.

The gifts were delivered on November 8 to St. Margaret’s Church, on Sixth Street, which has many community outreach programs.

Mrahar said toys and non-perishable food can also be dropped off at 22 Division when open. He said officers will be back for another toy and food drive on December 13 in the Markland Woods area.

Mrahar noted there is always a need for children toys, food, clothing and other accessories.

The toys and food collection drive has been taking place annually by different police Divisions and forces for about 20-years.

The much-appreciated items are distributed to those in need in our community in time for Christmas.

St. Margaret’s Church has been serving the New Toronto, Mimico and Long Branch area for more than 114-years. The church was established in 1906.