Toys for Tickets program returns to Pickering for the holidays

Pickering’s Toys for Tickets program is back this Christmas season after a two-year Pandemic hiatus.

Vehicle owners who receive parking tickets between Monday, November 28 through Wednesday, December 21 will be able to pay their fine with a toy or food donation.

Donations must be dropped off to City Hall, and a receipt must be presented to confirm that the value of the donation equals or exceeds the fine. Tickets for parking in an Accessible Parking Space are not eligible for the program.

The Toys for Tickets/Food for Fines program operated for 11 years in Pickering prior to being paused during the COVID-19 pandemic due to health and safety concerns. Providing the program this year will be a “welcome return” to supporting members of the community in need, according to a news release from the City.

The first Toys for Tickets/Food for Fines program was offered by the City of Pickering in 2009. Since that time, it has been a tremendous success, supporting families in need and promoting the spirit of the holiday season. The program has received extensive media coverage at both the national and local level, as well as through social media and participation from the community has been generous and enthusiastic.

In 2018, the Toys For Tickets/Food for Fines program brought in approximately $1,050 in donations, as compared to the $850 in lost fine revenue. This year’s program will continue to benefit families in need by sharing donations with the Durham Regional Police Service Food and Toy Drive, and the Pickering Fire Services Food and Toy Drive.

Based on increases to parking fines, it is estimated the lost revenue amount will range from $2,000 to $3,000 for 2022.