Toys for Tickets program returns

‘Tis the season for the Linda Mainprize Toys for Tickets program.

The annual initiative allows anyone who receives an eligible parking ticket from December 1 to 14 to pay for it by donating a new, unwrapped gift of equal or greater value before tax.

“Each year, Toys for Tickets reminds us of the generosity that defines Stouffville,” says Mayor Iain Lovatt. “By turning a parking fine into a gift for a neighbour, we’re supporting families who need it most and strengthening the spirit of community that makes our town so special.”

This year, the greatest need is for items for newborns, tweens and teens, including baby essentials, art supplies, gift cards, games, clothing and personal care products. Donations must include proof of purchase and the original Parking Penalty Notice.

Residents participating in Toys for Tickets or anyone wishing to donate a gift can drop items off at the Municipal Offices at 111 Sandiford Dr., Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Donations will be collected until December 17, then distributed through the Stouffville Lions Club and the Stouffville Food Bank.

The program is named in honour of Linda Mainprize, the Town’s late manager of Municipal Law Enforcement. Mainprize served Stouffville for 17 years. She passed away suddenly in 2018 and the program continues each year as a tribute to her commitment to the community.

The Town is also reminding residents that winter parking restrictions are in effect from December 1 to March 31, with no on-street parking permitted between 2 and 6 a.m. Parking is also prohibited at any time during active winter maintenance operations. Those seasonal rules help maintain efficient snow clearing and safe road conditions, it notes. It encourages residents to use off-street parking and remind guests of those requirements.

For updates on winter operations, visit townofws.ca/snow. For full details on parking regulations and the Toys for Tickets program, visit townofws.ca/parking.