The spirit of giving came to life at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy, which had the honour of hosting the kickoff of the 2024 CHUM Christmas Wish Campaign and Vaughan Toy Drive. For the past 58 years, the CHUM Christmas Wish Campaign has brought joy to countless families across the GTA, and this year promises to be no different.
Even though it was 6:45 a.m. on Monday, the school community brought their energy and enthusiasm for a joyful celebration of generosity and Christmas cheer. CP24’s enthusiastic anchor, Jee-Yun Lee, broadcast the event live, hosting the kickoff directly from St. Gregory’s gymnasium. The atmosphere inside the school gym was nothing short of magical – every seat was filled as students, staff and families came dressed in festive sweaters, accessories and Christmas-themed outfits.
The morning’s festivities included Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca, who spoke about the importance of community involvement, especially during these challenging economic times. He emphasized that the need for generosity is greater now than ever, urging everyone to come together to support families in need this Christmas.
Several representatives from the school board were present to show their support for this meaningful initiative. Present at the joyous event were Chair of the Board Elizabeth Crowe, Vice Chair Maria Iafrate, local Trustees Jennifer Wigston and Angela Grella, as well as Trustee Angela Saggese, Interim Director of Education John De Faveri and Superintendent of Education Laura Sawicky.
The event showcased the God-given talents of the students, including:
- The junior division and school choir filled the gym with beautiful Christmas carols, delighting the audience with songs performed in English, French and Italian.
- The youngest members of the school, the full-day kindergarten students, added an adorable touch with their own special performance, bringing smiles to everyone present.
- Several talented piano soloists captivated the audience, followed by a touching piano and guitar duet by a brother-sister duo.
- A lively ensemble featuring xylophones and drums added a unique musical touch.
- The grand finale saw CP24’s Jee-Yun Lee joining the St. Gregory dance team for an impromptu dance routine, which got the crowd to cheer.
Four confident students acted as Masters of Ceremonies and led the program seamlessly with their exceptional speaking skills and their passion for helping others.
At St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy, the commitment to giving and living as God’s children is at the heart of everything they do. As St. Gregory the Great once said, “He who gives for God’s sake will always receive what he needs.” Principal Didi Cammalleri echoed this message, encapsulating the event’s spirit with her own words: “Our gift is in giving.”
The event was not just about performances – it was a celebration of community spirit in the name of generosity. The staff at St. Gregory worked tirelessly behind the scenes, transforming the school into a festive wonderland. The gym, hallways and entrance were beautifully decorated, creating an inviting and joyful atmosphere that welcomed all attendees.
How You Can Support the Toy Drive
Thank you to everyone at St. Gregory the Great who demonstrated why we need to help others during the Christmas season. In addition to promoting the CHUM Christmas Wish, the school has been busy collecting toys since November 1 and will continue to do so as the holidays draw nearer.
The need for donations is greater than ever this year. If you would like to make a difference, consider contributing to the City of Vaughan Toy Drive and the CHUM Christmas Wish Campaign:
- Drop off a new, unwrapped toy for children aged newborn to 18 years at Vaughan community centres, libraries and fire halls until December 13, 2024.
- Toys can also be delivered to Vaughan City Hall through December 13, 2024.
Your contribution can help brighten a child’s Christmas and bring hope to families in our community. Let’s come together this holiday season to spread kindness, joy and love.
Merry Christmas, and God bless!
