A Bus Full of Joy

This holiday season, the Aspira Astoria Retirement Living bus made a special trip to BC Children’s Hospital, filled with over 1,000 gifts and the collective generosity of residents, team members, and community partners.

The idea for the Toy Drive originated with General Manager Naheed Walji, whose vision, combined with Sales Advisor, Kristy Laughy's expert planning, brought together the entire Astoria community for a meaningful cause. With many of the residents having backgrounds in healthcare, BC Children’s Hospital felt like a natural choice to support. The initiative resonated deeply with everyone involved, inspiring an outpouring of generosity and collaboration.

As soon as the Toy Drive was launched in early November, the response was extraordinary. Contributions poured in from community members, local businesses, Rotary Clubs, real estate agents, and even the Port Coquitlam City Council eagerly joined the effort.

To maximize the reach and fun, the Astoria team hosted a festive drop-off event to collect the final donations. Residents and team members welcomed visitors with hot chocolate, apple cider, candy canes, and special peppermint biscotti prepared by Chef Lewis. Santa and his friends were also on hand to greet donors and pose for photos, adding a touch of holiday magic to the day.

The success of the event showcased the power of community and the spirit of giving. Astoria’s residents, known for their compassion and eagerness to give back, played a central role in making the Toy Drive a resounding success. Their efforts brought joy not only to the children and families at BC Children’s Hospital but to everyone who participated in the initiative.