Adam’s toy drive

Ten days after 22-year old Adam Aiello was killed in a car crash, his Mother is turning the tragedy into a tribute for her son. Instead of flowers, the Thorold woman asked for new toy donations for needy children. And within hours they nearly filled a truck for community care.

Adam Aiello’s friends Ashley, Danielle, Ryan and Josh sit around his Mother’s kitchen table remembering Adam and looking at pictures of the boy who grew from a chubby cheeked kid to a chiseled body builder.

Even as a toddler, Adam wanted to be a fireman. He graduated from the training college and went out to Alberta. Ten days ago Adam was a passenger in a car that hit another vehicle head on. He was killed instantly.

Barb Reid is Adam’s Mother: “Aside from the hugs and everything else, I’m going to miss that smile. Even talking on the phone or receiving a text, I could just see that smile.”

Barb wanted something for which her son would be remembered. Flowers wither, toys are cherished. In his obituary, she asked everyone to donate toys for needy children:

“I wanted moms to see smiles on their kids faces. The way Adam’s smile used to light up our home.”

Within hours, donations started pouring in. they filled cars, the family’s living room. and nearly an entire truck at community care of St. Catharines and Thorold.

Adam’s brother Alex says his brother put people first and would be overwhelmed by all of this: “Adam always wanted to help others who are less fortunate.”

Communiity care serves about 45 hundred needy children. All of these gifts will go to them.

Barb says: “People are being told, these are special gifts and they’re from a very special person. And to treasure them.”

Barb will treasure the children’s reaction.

Betty-Lou Souter is with Community Care: “When those kids open up and see those gifts in the morning. this mission my reason has been accomplished.”

Anyone who wants to make a donation in Adam Aiello’s memory can drop off a toy at any fire station in St. Catharines or Thorold.