Mohawk College Advertising students are using their skills to bring Christmas cheer to children in need on the Hamilton Central-East Mountain.

For the past four years, students have been organizing an annual toy drive for Mountain Kidz, a not-for-profit agency that provides services to children and their families. Adam Pipe, Student Representative to the Mohawk Board of Governors, says they plan on doing more this year than in the past.

“I’ve set the bar a little higher this year and we’re not just collecting toys, we’ve sought a couple sponsorships for some sweaters and we’d also like to provide the meal that goes on with this event for Mountain Kidz. We’re hoping for a toy and dinner for about 100 children and their families,” he said.

Previously, second-year Advertising students organized the event, but Pipe says the entire program is on board now.

Kathy Archer started Mountain Kidz Klub in 1999 to help provide services and events to children in the community who could otherwise not afford them. Weekly programs include craft nights, board games, and sewing. Mountain Kidz also offers services for the whole family, including cooking lessons and yoga.

Archer began hosting an annual Christmas dinner ten years ago when she realized the kids were not getting one at home.

“A lot of the kids were saying they didn’t have a turkey dinner and mom and dad who are struggling, working to make ends meet can’t afford all the fixings, it’s quite expensive to have a turkey dinner, “ she said. “It grows every year. There is more demand for toys, and more demand for the dinner whether it’s children, families or seniors.”

Donations for the toy drive are being accepted at Mohawk College, Walmart, and Tracey’s Place.