Toronto 
The City of Pickering is once again running its innovative ‘Toys 4 Tickets and Food 4 Fines’ program this holiday season, offering a compassionate alternative to paying parking fines.
Credit: City of Pickering
From November 27 to December 20, 2023, residents can opt to donate toys or food instead of paying for parking tickets. The donations must be of equal or greater value than the parking fines, and receipts are required for all contributions.
This program, however, excludes tickets issued for illegal parking in accessible spaces. While the main goal is to provide an alternative payment for parking violations, the city also welcomes donations from those not involved in the program.
Donations, which must be new, unwrapped toys or non-perishable food items, can be made at Pickering City Hall, on weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
All contributions will support the Durham Regional Police Food & Toy Drive and the Pickering Fire Services Food & Toy Drive, directly benefiting those in need during the holiday season.
Reflecting on the success of the 2022 program, the City of Pickering saw the community come together to raise donations valued at $832, demonstrating the generosity and spirit of the residents in supporting those less fortunate.
