By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On Sunday, December 15, Toys “R” Us Canada, in collaboration with Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada and Herb’s Secret Santa, spread joy and holiday magic to families facing the daily realities of serious childhood illness. Together, they raised over $150,000, allowing children to enjoy private shopping sprees at Toys “R” Us stores.
This heartfelt fundraiser created an unforgettable experience filled with love, joy, and life-changing memories for hundreds of families. Held at 11 stores across Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, the event brought comfort and holiday cheer to more than 750 families during a season when they needed it most. The stores transformed into festive havens, offering exclusive shopping experiences where Starlight children and their siblings received gift cards to shop to their hearts’ content in an atmosphere brimming with magic and warmth.
The event at the Burlington Toys “R” Us was further elevated by special appearances from St. Nick himself, accompanied by beloved characters like Spiderman and others, who spread holiday cheer and made the day even more special for the children and their families.
“Being in an environment where we can connect with other families, just like ours, and share the experience is priceless,” said Amanda Dametto, whose seven-year-old daughter Mikayla lives with cerebral palsy.
“The whole event was warm and inviting. All the Starlight staff, volunteers, and Toys ‘R’ Us staff were all smiles and enthusiastic. One cashier even joined our girls to play in the Wonderlab just because they asked her to! The special guest characters were welcoming and took the time to chat with our children, making them feel truly special. It was a magical day.”
Reflecting on the day’s highlights, Dametto noted that Mikayla especially loved reconnecting with friends she had met at previous Starlight events. “She had so much fun in the Wonderlab with them,” Dametto said. Mikayla’s excitement peaked during her shopping spree in the “Barbie aisle” and her special visit with Santa. “He took the time to chat with her and her sister, Maya, about what they wanted for Christmas and even reminded them to be good for Mommy and Daddy!”
One particularly heartwarming moment occurred when Mikayla noticed other children using mobility aids like hers. “‘Mommy, look! She has braces like mine…they’re pink!’ She was so excited,” Dametto recalled.
Dametto emphasized the importance of events like these for families facing medical challenges.
“Being in an environment where Mikayla can be among a group of other warriors like herself, where she feels at home and not ‘different,’ is so impactful,” she said. “Unfortunately, it’s not common in society today to be somewhere without anyone staring at your child with special needs. Having this opportunity to just let her be a kid and have fun is so important to us.”
She added that these events provide families a chance to connect with others who understand the daily challenges of supporting a child with special needs. “The warm smiles, friendly nods, and shared experiences are priceless.”
Events like this also bring much-needed joy and positivity to families during otherwise difficult times. “Children facing differing challenges physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively are able to just be kids and have fun,” Dametto shared. “Everyone there was so kind and welcoming. Families with similar challenges could forget about all the appointments, treatments, and therapies for a while and simply enjoy time together.”
What made the event even more special was its inclusivity. Siblings were also included and received the same gifts, ensuring no one felt left out. “This event was a beautiful reminder of the joy and magic of the holiday season, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.”
Kristina Hopp, director of communications at Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada, provided further insight into the organization’s mission and the significance of events like these.
“This event was held in 11 locations across Canada. While it was in Burlington, it was also in other parts of Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta. We saw a lot of families across Canada — 750 in total, 100 of those being from the Burlington area,” explained Hopp.
Hopp highlighted the anticipation leading up to the event as a key aspect of its success. “The highlight this year is just that it was not only special on the day but also something that families could look forward to in the weeks leading up to it.”
“Just seeing the community of volunteers and Toys ‘R’ Us staff members all come together to put a smile on a child’s face was incredible. We could not have done this without them.”
She emphasized the impact on families who might not have experienced the magic of the holiday season. “Many of these children haven’t even experienced the magic of Christmas before. It’s so special and more magical than most events. It finally allowed families to feel like they could take a breath and smile, even if just for a moment.”
Hopp acknowledged the challenges many of the participating families face, which others may not fully understand.
“Families who are not going through medical challenges don’t always understand the obstacles like managing medical appointments or ensuring wheelchairs or walkers or any mobility aids [are available], or having to cancel plans last minute because their child isn’t feeling well. Being in an environment with a hundred other families just like yours is really empowering for them and it creates a sense of community.”
Hopp also highlighted the importance of public support. “There are thousands of seriously ill children and hospitalized children across the country and in our communities. Sometimes people don’t realize just how prevalent it is. We’re publicly funded and we accept donations at starlightcanada.org. Donations support programs within your local hospitals — hospitals right here in Burlington, [with programs] such as ‘Fun Centres’ which are giant TV systems where families can play video games while they’re stuck in the hospital. The funds also go to events like this, directly supporting the community where our families are living.”
Hopp encouraged anyone interested in supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation to consider volunteering: “Our website at starlightcanada.org has a ‘Become a Volunteer’ page. Signing up adds you to our email list, where you’ll receive notifications about volunteer opportunities. As a nonprofit, we rely heavily on volunteers, and we host many events throughout the year where help is needed. If people want to get involved, that’s the best way to start.”
Events like these not only provide magical moments but they also build a network of support and understanding. As families snapped pictures, shared smiles, and cherished memories, the true spirit of the holiday season came alive, reminding us all the power of generosity and togetherness.
