City supports annual Salvation Army toy drive with free space for donations

The City of Cambridge is once again proud to support the local Salvation Army this holiday season by providing a space for their annual Toy Mountain toy drive.

This year, the first floor of the Preston Scout House has been made available at no cost to the Salvation Army to support their campaign.

“I’m pleased that we are able to once again step in to help the Cambridge Salvation Army find a space to continue their important work,” said Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett. “The community benefits greatly from their efforts to ensure every child in the community has a gift to open this holiday season.”

Last year, the City offered free use of the former RBC building at 637 King Street East to help the Salvation Army host its annual campaign. This year, that space is occupied so  City staff met with organizers and offered up the Preston Scout House location.

“The Salvation Army Cambridge Community Services would like to express our deepest gratitude to the City of Cambridge for the loan of the Preston Scout House to accommodate our Christmas Toy Mountain Toy Shop for this year,” said Salvation Army Executive Director, Danette Woods. “It had been our intention to use our newly renovated facility on Shade Street to accommodate the Toy Shop, but unfortunately it was not ready on time. When I reached out to the City staff, they were eager to help us once again.  Thanks to the City, our crucial program can run normally, and the children of Cambridge will receive their Christmas gifts and toys as normal. Organizationally, of course, we will benefit from the use of this building by having donated space from which to operate, but it is the children of this community who will benefit most from the generosity extended. Thank you for your care and support.”

The Preston Scout House will offer ample space for staff and volunteers to organize, process, sort, and distribute donations. The organization will have use of the space until January 9, 2026.

Donations of new, unwrapped toys and gifts for children ages 0-16 can be dropped off at the Preston Scout House, located at 1580 Queenston Road. Cash donations are also being accepted at any kettle locations throughout the city from late November to Christmas Eve, or online at donate.salvationarmy.ca

The Salvation Army’s annual Toy Mountain campaign in Cambridge provides approximately 3,000 children with a new toy or gift each Christmas.

For more information on the Toy Mountain campaign visit, TSAcambridgeON.org or email, cambridgecitadel.office@salvationarmy.ca, or call 519-623-2520.