RICHMOND – The 8th annual Victor Ghirra Toy collected 3,500 plus toys in Richmond last Saturday afternoon. The toy drive dedicated to Ghirra, described as the man with the golden heart, inspired people from across the Lower Mainland to give and put smiles on thousands of children’s faces for Christmas this year.
Michael, Bobby and Sanj Ghirra, Victor’s brothers were very pleased at the turnout this year: “Victor’s kind acts have inspired so many, more and more people hear our brother’s story and they feel inspired to give. We believe because our brother Victor was such a genuine, kind person it is so hard to find anyone ever like him.”
Riverside Palace Banquet Hall was decorated with plenty of holiday cheer. Santa Claus himself made an appearance and was eager to take photos with guests. Guests were welcomed with treats and kids hopped into the bouncy castle as generous individuals made their drops and were assisted by volunteers.
Victor was involved in many charitable initiatives, but one charity that Victor was really touched by was BC Children’s Hospital. A heartwarming story that depicts Victor’s character was when he would every Christmas, buy thousands of dollars of toys and go to Children’s Hospital to donate them to needy children. When they would ask, “Who are you and where are these toys from, which organization?” Victor would simply reply, “It doesn’t matter who I am or where I am from, these toys are for the kids and that’s all you need to know.”
Victor made trips to the hospital for over a dozen years. Victor was just being Victor, he didn’t tell anyone what he was up to. Joe Casciano, Associate Recruiting Manager with The Co-operators said: “The Co-operators District and Agency staff is very proud to once again support the toy drive. This year with the help of our clients, our staff was able to purchase over 150 new toys. Staff also generously donated funds used to purchase toys for the event.”
For more information on how you can make a difference in next year’s toy drive, please contact: The Benevolent Brotherhood Society: Harvey Kooner, 604.671.4180, [email protected]
