Some Cape Breton children aren’t expecting Santa to bring the latest PlayStation or Iphone this Christmas. Children who visit the North Sydney Clifford Street Youth Centre and the Sydney Mines Jay Street Youth Centre are asking for hygiene products, clothing and bedding.
Organizers say it’s disheartening that their young clients want things like hairbrushes, blankets and toothbrushes because their parent can’t afford much else.
Volunteer Paul Ratchford works at both centers. He helped them get started about 16 years ago when he was a police officer and has been helping them ever since. Ratchford says they have 100-150 wish lists to fulfil this year containing the hygiene products and bedding while providing some toys when possible.
The center’s organizers say community donations are the driving force for their mission, but more help is always appreciated.
CKOA Radio spoke to representatives from both centers.
