To help with the rise in the cost of living, Aldergrove realtor Emma Stewart has partnered with local businesses to host a community-wide toy drive. 

The goal is to collect enough new and gently used toys, games, and books for kids of all ages, to hold a free Christmas shopping experience. 

"Everyone is feeling the pinch right now with the rising costs, things are expensive, everything's expensive," Stewart explained. 

She added that the toy collection and shopping event also promotes recycling and reusing toys we would otherwise toss out. 

Toys are being collected until Dec. 5 at four drop-off locations: 

• Beem Credit Union, 3661 248 St. 
• Co-operators, #B100 - 26426 Fraser Hwy.
• Veronica's Perogies, 2989 272 St. 
• 91原创 Meals on Wheels, 2900 272 St. 

People can also schedule a pickup online at . 

The free shopping event will be held on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parkside Elementary, located at 3300 270 St. 

Donations are encouraged at the event to support the Rotary Club of Aldergrove.