Nineteen years later his kindness still leads the way

The spirit of the season filled Riverside Palace Banquet Hall in Richmond on December 14, 2025, as community members from across the Lower Mainland gathered for the grand toy count of the 19th Annual Victor Ghirra Toy Drive.

More than 150 attendees arrived carrying new, unwrapped toys and gift cards, united by a shared purpose of bringing comfort and joy to families navigating a difficult year. The family-friendly celebration reflected the warmth at the heart of the initiative. Festive treats, cheerful décor, and special appearances by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch welcomed families as they dropped off toys and paused for photos, creating memories that extended well beyond the holiday season.

At the center of the toy drive is the enduring legacy of Victor Ghirra, a man remembered for his quiet generosity and genuine humility. This year alone, the drive collected more than 2,000 toys, all of which will be distributed to 18 charitable organizations across British Columbia. Supported by the Benevolent Brotherhood Society, the Ghirra family, Co-operators Insurance agencies, Riverside Banquet Halls, and the Richmond Sunrise Rotary Group, the initiative continues to grow in both reach and impact.

For Victor’s nephew, Ethan Ghirra, the meaning of the toy drive runs deep. “I am deeply proud of how far our toy drive committee has come. Together, we have provided more than 50,000 toys to children and families in need. This initiative honors my Uncle Victor, a man remembered for his kindness and humility, and reflects the power of community coming together for good.”

Victor’s compassion was perhaps most evident in his long-standing commitment to BC Children’s Hospital. For more than a dozen years, he quietly purchased thousands of dollars’ worth of toys every Christmas and donated them anonymously. When asked who he was, Victor would simply respond that the toys were for the children, and that was all that mattered. His visits went unnoticed for years, a reflection of a man who gave without seeking recognition.

Nearly two decades later, Victor’s legacy continues to inspire those who knew him. Joe Casciano, Operations Supervisor at Cooperators Insurance, noted that 2025 marked another successful year of support for the toy drive. He shared that the generosity of colleagues and friends helped brighten the holidays for many families facing financial challenges, while also honoring a dear friend whose spirit of giving lives on. Plans are already underway to continue the tradition in 2026.

The Richmond Sunrise Rotary Group, a proud supporter of the toy drive for the past 11 years, contributed $5,500 in donations and toys this year. Project Chair Debbie Tablotney emphasized that strengthening communities lies at the heart of Rotary’s mission, and that the Ghirra Toy Drive provides a meaningful opportunity to spread comfort and happiness during the holidays.

The initiative was further supported by local businesses and individuals who stepped forward to help. Dr. Harpreet Dhillon of Dentist on Kingsway and Strive Dental in Surrey once again contributed to the cause, while PrintPrint.ca, operated by one of Victor’s close friends, supported the drive through printed materials. Volunteers and donors from across the community came together, driven by a shared desire to make a difference.

This year’s beneficiaries included BC Children’s Hospital, Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, Richmond Christmas Fund, Canuck Place, Nightshift Ministries Care Centre, Surrey Christmas Bureau, Richmond Food Bank, Vernon Santas Anonymous, local elementary schools, families affected by the Steveston apartment fire in Richmond, and children in need both locally and internationally. In total, more than 55,250 toys have been collected and distributed over the past 19 years.

Harvey Kooner of the Benevolent Brotherhood Society, founder of the toy drive, reflected on the season’s impact. He shared that the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community partners continues to bring hope and happiness to families who need it most, carrying forward Victor Ghirra’s vision of compassion, generosity, and care.

For those interested in supporting the 2026 Victor Ghirra Toy Drive, more information is available by contacting
Harvey Kooner at 604-671-4180 or
harveykooner1@gmail.com.