The Municipality of Port Hope has launched its annual Toys for Tickets program allowing residents to pay parking fines issued between Dec. 1 and 15 with a donation instead of cash.
The initiative gives residents a chance to reduce parking-related penalties while helping local families during the holiday season.
Acceptable donations include new, unwrapped children’s toys, infant and children’s clothing, non-perishable food items and gift certificates geared toward teenagers. All items must be in their original packaging and must not require batteries or glue. War toys will not be accepted.
To qualify as payment, the donation must be equal to or greater than the value of the outstanding parking ticket, not including taxes. Those making a donation must provide their proof of purchase along with the parking infraction notice at the time of drop-off.
Donations will be accepted at Fire Station 1, located at 245 Ontario St. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., between December 1 and December 18.
Municipal officials said the program offers an alternative to traditional ticket payment methods while supporting families who may be struggling this holiday season. More information can be found on the municipality’s paying a parking ticket webpage.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)