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Local residents never fail to reach out to seniors Continued from page 8 11 · Thursday, November 29, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com dences directly, which would give her wish lists from the residents and that she in turn would send out to friends, family and coworkers. Once the public became aware of the program through a press release she sent out, COCP grew exponentially and so quickly Harrington began setting up trees and tags to keep everything organized and well-run. "It's completely on an honour system, which is what makes it so unique. I can ask the public for almost anything and we'll get it," Harrington said, noting she has never had concerns over the contents of the gifts and if they would be dangerous to residents as she examines the lists e-mailed to her before sending out the tags. The usual items on wish lists include pajamas, soft blankets, toothpaste and shampoo. "Some even ask for gift cards to restaurants or coffee shops, so that they have something to give to their nurses on Christmas morning," said Harrington. "It's hard for them to not have something to give." This year, a lot of seniors have asked for lift chairs to help them get around. After catching wind of this, coaches at the Burlington Lions Optimist Minor Hockey Association (BLOMHA) fundraised to buy six chairs at $600 each. "It was amazing and completely unexpected," said Harrington. "I've been told that the really interesting thing about the program and why organizations and individuals like it is because it's bringing the communities of little pockets across the region together." This year COCP will serve 4,000 seniors, with wish lists still coming in. Locations across Halton, include: · The Oakville Beaver -- 467 Speers Rd., Oakville · The Body Shaping Fitness Studio For Women -- 183 Lakeshore Rd. W., Oakville · BLOMHA headquarters -- 3455 Fairview St., Burlington · Cedar Springs Health and Racquet Club -- 960 Cumberland Ave., Burlington · Charles R. Beaudoin Public School -- 4313 Clubview Dr., Burlington · Curves -- 3505 Upper Middle Rd. and 676 Appleby Line, Burlington · Freshco -- 3505 Upper Middle Rd., Burlington · Holland Park Garden Gallery -- 2243 Fairview St., Burlington · Let It Heal -- 3031 Dundas St., Burlington · Millcroft Fitness and Wellness -- 2500 Appleby Line, Burlington · Pet Paradise -- Millcroft Plaza, 2020 Appleby Line · Remax Garden City Realty -- 241 Plains Rd. E., Burlington · Rolling Meadows Public School -- 1522 Mountain Grove Ave., Burlington · Studio Technique -- 691 Brant St., Burlington Visit www.childrenofchristmaspast.com for a complete list. Currently funded out of Harrington's own pocket, the COCP program is in the process of attaining its non-for-profit charitable status -- a fact that she admits has proven tougher than she'd hoped; a single parent, she says she can only devote so much time and funds to maintaining the program. Until COCP becomes a registered charity, Harrington says the program is in need of financial donations and sponsors, especially to purchase new signs and trees. As well, volunteers are always needed and accepted to be porch clearers, sort gifts, for distribution, administration, managing trees and gift collection. Those interested can visit the program's website. Welcome to the Wonderful World of Playmobil Toys reg. priced items 20% off Store Hours: Monday closed Tuesday to Friday 10 am - 5 pm Saturday 11 am - 4 pm Special hours in December 22, 23, 24 9 am - 5 pm, closed 25 and 26 BOXING DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS! Ho Ho Ho on each Wednesday in November with purchase of $150. or more (while supplies last) 10% additional Free gift 6430 Kennedy Road - Unit D. Mississauga (at Annagem Blvd.) 905.696.7529 · www.playmobil.ca TM Let the festive fun begin! Our stores are full of holiday delight. Shop for great gifts, holiday decor, festive fashions and more. With over 60 Shops and Services, it's easy to check off your holiday shopping list. Optimist Club of Oakville Christmas Tree Sale November 29th to December 23rd (Parking lot near McDonald's). Supporting youth programs in Oakville. WIN a $250 Gift Card Contest closes December 31st, 2012. to your favourite store at Dorval Crossing. Enter for your chance to win at dorvalcrossing.com Over 60 Shops & Services located at the QEW & Dorval Drive Visit dorvalcrossing.com for more information PROUDLY MANAGED BY