Thanks to hundreds of donations from local businesses and community members, a free holiday shopping experience was held at Parkside Elementary earlier this month. 

"Everyone is feeling the pinch right now with the rising costs, things are expensive, everything's expensive," explained local realtor Emma Stewart, who spearheaded the event.

"We wanted to have the community come together, and hosted a toy drive for three weeks, and it all culminates in a free holiday shopping day." 

Stewart was accompanied by her family members, Rebecca and Jordana.

A free shopping experience is being offered thanks to community donations at Parkside Elementary until 2pm today

— Aldergrove Star (@AldergroveStar)

She estimated donations were near 1,000, as the gently used and new toys, books, and games filled the library of Parkside. 

"The community has been so generous," Stewart commented. "We had a hard time keeping up with donations!"

Everything from stuffed animals to books to full children's kitchens and doll houses were donated. 

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

Any items leftover after the event were donated to the 91Ô­´´ Christmas Bureau. 

"We'll make sure they get used and put into the right hands," Stewart said. 

She hopes to make the shopping experience an annual event for those unable to afford new presents during the holidays.