ATV Riders Raise Funds For Kids’ Christmas Gifts

On Saturday, December 3, Haldimand Area ATV Club (HAAC) members and representatives from the Haldimand REACH Society joined forces to take part in a ride to aid their annual "Toys for Tots" campaign.

"We have been collecting toys and raising funds for four years now, but this is the first year that we have coupled it with a ride," said Alan McKee of Hamilton ATV Riders and organizer of the day’s event.  "We feel very strongly about this cause.  After all, charity begins at home and, given that we are losing businesses to the US, we really want to make our efforts count this year.  We collect gifts for all ages from tots to teens."

"The trails we will be riding run through the area from Maitland Shore to Fifty Road," said Claude Verreault of the REACH organization.  "We couldn't have wanted a better day than this.  When we return from the ride we will be having a potluck supper and some good-natured ribbing."

The revving of engines from a contingent of over 40 ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) signaled the beginning of the run and, helmets donned, the women and men mounted their ATVs and pulled out in sequence onto Dunnville Townline Road.

"Toys for all ages can be dropped off at Home Hardware stores in Hagersville, Selkirk and Caledonia or at the Legion hall in Cayuga," said McKee.  "Cash donations can be arranged by contacting Greg Armstrong at 905-379-4795."

More information can be found on the Haldimand-Norfolk REACH website, www.hnreach.ca.

"The ride was very successful and donations of cash and toys was more than gratifying," said Greg Armstrong of Haldimand REACH in the wake of the event.

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The Haldimand Area ATV Club (HAAC) received a letter of thanks for the terrific donations for the annual Christmas "Toys for Tots" toy and food drive.  The Haldimand REACH Society recognized our efforts and explained how the money was spent. There was one special story on the day before Christmas about a family in Haldimand with seven children that received gifts and food, something they would have not had otherwise. Great job Greg, Al, Jimmy, and all the other HAAC members and those from the community who supported us!!