Big thumbs up, Toystock! (10 photos)

For Greg Simpson of Maxx Entertainment, the annual Toystock event is his way of giving back.

Celebrating its 4th year last Sunday, the Christmas Cheer fundraiser drew hundreds to Grand Gardens North to enjoy a variety of activities, treats, games, prizes and live entertainment.

"Christmas seems to be about spending money and big gifts, but there's a lot of kids that don't get to enjoy that. I figured a bunch of us musicians could get together and make a difference in a kid's life Christmas morning," Simpson told SooToday.

A team of approximately 12 volunteers operate the event with everything needed provided by private and corporate donation, from the venue and sound production to the live entertainment.

During the 10-hour music showcase, 10 local acts volunteered their time and talents, including Boc Tu Roc Music School students, The Algo Rythms, Domina, Mojo, Mourning Wood, Havadder, Under the Influence, The Rude-Offs, Gneaus and Bone Yard.

Continuously gaining popularity, Simpson said the event has grown to the point where he now has to turn bands down that wish to participate.

"Musicians are the first ones to give. It's music. It's all about giving," he said. "They've always been the first ones to step up and it's fantastic. It's about everybody coming together."

He hopes to see the event eventually grow into the Essar Centre.

Admission to Toystock was by donation of new or gently used toys, non-perishable food items, or monetary contributions in order to support the Christmas Cheer Stuff-A-Bus campaign.

Although Toystock has yet to completely stuff said bus, Simpson was happy to report that this year's event came very close, and also raised $1,400 to support local children in need.

Christmas Cheer Sault Ste. Marie provides disadvantaged families in the Algoma district with the makings for a complete turkey dinner, as well as children's winter clothing items and toys.

Christmas Cheer hamper applications are accepted by phone at 705-575-9660 until 4 p.m. Friday, December 4, 2015.

Those who wish to make a donation may visit the Christmas Cheer depot located at the former Alexander Henry High School, 232 Northern Avenue, Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., and this Saturday, December 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Delivery of the hampers will take place on Thursday, December 17, 2015.

(PHOTO: Event coordinator Greg Simpson shows his appreciation at the 4th annual Toystock Christmas Cheer fundraiser on Sunday, November 29, 2015. Donna Hopper/SooToday)