Just call him Santa Khan.
Walmart Canada associate Jaed Khan is putting smiles on children’s faces this holiday season by donating $15,000 worth of new toys for local children in need.
Following in his father’s footsteps, the VP of Digital Business Development says he donates money to charity every year. He was inspired by his 9-year-old daughter, Arissa, to do something different to help kids this year.
“Arissa gave me a challenge,” Jaed said. She wanted to donate gifts that could be used time and time again, so the father-daughter duo decided to donate toys. What followed was a four-hour shopping spree at the Walmart Supercentre in Milton, Ont., where Arissa and Walmart associates chose gifts for children of all ages, with a little help from Chief People Officer AnnMarie Mercer.
“I grew up as a recipient of these kinds of programs,” Jaed said. “The ability to turn that around and actually be in that fortunate position to give to others obviously makes this quite special.”
The Khan family’s generosity means more than 1,300 children are going to get new toys this Christmas through donations to Milton’s Miracle on Main Street, The Salvation Army and Peel Regional Police in support of the Toys for Tots campaign.
Const. Taryn Hill fought back tears as she spoke about the impact these toys will have for local families.
“It makes us feel extremely grateful to be part of this campaign,” the officer said. “It absolutely warms our hearts, especially seeing how much Jaed donated – it’s incredible. And to do it with his daughter, it’s like he’s passing his big heart onto the next generation.”
Major Lynn Cummings with The Salvation Army says these gifts will not only bring smiles to children on Christmas morning, but also to parents who may be facing financial hardships at this time of year.
“We love to partner with places like Walmart. It just makes Christmas brighter and lighter for everyone.”
As shopping carts filled with gifts rolled out the store, Jaed thanked everyone at Walmart Canada – from distribution centres to stores – who helped make this event possible.
“After four hours of shopping, my daughter asked me if we could make it a tradition. I told her I’ll think about it when my feet recover,” Jaed said with a smile. “We’re probably going to do it again next year.”
