Despite a quieter holiday shopping season for some, the Downtown Kingston business community is once again stepping up to support residents in need.
Local merchants, working through Downtown Kingston, have raised thousands of dollars and collected essential items through a range of charitable efforts, from toy drives to donations supporting local services.
For more than 20 years, Downtown Kingston has partnered with community groups to collect money and non-perishable food items for the Kingston Food Bank during the annual Nighttime Santa Parade.
The popular November event regularly draws more than 10,000 people to the downtown core, with residents donating generously to help support families facing food insecurity.
The holiday season also brings a lighter touch. Volunteers known as “Downtown Kingston elves” help Santa respond to every letter sent by local children, ensuring each one receives a reply from the North Pole.
Organizers say these traditions show the downtown remains focused on community, even during challenging economic times.
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