Toronto police officers offered time off in exchange for donations to United Way

The Toronto Police Service is offering time off to officers as a reward for providing donations to a local charity, but replacement officers may need to be brought in at a cost to taxpayers.

Global News obtained a copy of a poster that calls for police officers and employees to donate to the United Way Toronto & York Region, with a grand prize draw rewarding winners with days off.

First prize for the contest rewards officers with three days off, second prize is two days off, third prize is one day off and the fourth and fifth place winners are each rewarded with four hours off.

A Toronto police spokeswoman confirmed to Global News the poster was authentic and said the police service has been an “energetic supporter of the United Way for decades.”

“The Service has a vast number of initiatives to encourage members to donate to the many deserving organizations under the United Way umbrella,” Const. Caroline de Kloet said in an emailed statement. “We have raised over $5 million in the last decade.”

READ MORE: Toronto mayor calls for more effective use of police officers against ‘violent acts’

A spokesman for United Way Toronto & York Region said in an emailed statement more than 700 workplaces raise money for the charity.

“As long as it’s legal we don’t get involved in how they run their campaigns,” President and CEO Daniele Zanotti said.

“Over the past 10 years the Toronto police have raised more than $5 million for our community. That’s a major investment in changing people’s lives for the better, and we’re grateful for it.”

READ MORE: Toronto Police Service Board approves $27 million budget increase

The poster also states that donors will automatically be entered into a draw for a $100 gift card of their choice.

“The earlier you do your donation, the more weekly draws of $100 you will be eligible for,” it reads.