Global Calgary collected thousands of gifts for local families in need on Wednesday as part of our second annual Morning of Giving.
The new and unwrapped gifts were collected on behalf of local non-profit agency The Magic of Christmas. The charity, which runs entirely on donations, uses Calgary Transit buses to deliver donations to the city’s less fortunate on Christmas Eve.
In total, The Magic of Christmas said $29,260.52 was raised during our three hour broadcast, including cash donations, gift cards, gift certificates and online donations. In addition, 3,600 items were donated.
Those who stopped by Global Calgary to donate enjoyed live music and entertainment. There was also a fire pit and a Calgary Transit bus to keep warm.
WATCH: Some of the fun from the 2017 Morning of Giving
Learn more about The Magic of Christmas
The Magic of Christmas is a non-profit charity founded in 1983. The organization works with the City of Calgary social services and the Calgary Police Service to make sure Santa doesn’t miss anyone who needs a special visit.
The charity, which runs entirely on donations, uses Calgary Transit buses to deliver donations across the city on Christmas Eve.
WATCH: From one to 700: The family behind the Magic of Christmas.
How to donate
Donations will be accepted at The Magic of Christmas’ headquarters (called Santa’s Workshop) located at 6912 Farrell Rd. S.E. in November and December, and dozens of drop-off locations throughout the city – which can be found on The Magic of Christmas’ website.
Money can also be donated through the Magic of Christmas’ website.
In addition, donations can be made at Q107’s studios at 200 3320 17 Ave. S.W. from Dec. 4 until Dec. 22.
Or, you can drop off donations at any of Calgary’s Bowest Appliances locations:
Bowest Apppliances – Barlow Trail
Bay 25, 3900 106 Avenue SE
Calgary, AB
T2E 5B6
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bowest Apppliances – Bowness Location
#101, 6323 Bowness Road NW
Calgary, AB
T3B 0E4
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Bowest Apppliances – newest location
Bay K, 2020 32 Avenue N.E.
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What to donate
How recipients are chosen
According to the Magic of Christmas, the recipients are referred to the charity by doctors, teachers, social workers, police officers and nurses.
WATCH: Magic of Christmas group has their own Christmas wish.