York Regional Police improves life in York Region through sustained philanthropy
YRP hosted 65 events in 2024, raising over $1.2 million for partner charities and vulnerable citizens
In 2024, York Regional Police events fundraised over $1.2 million for our partner charities.
The Special Events Unit hosted 65 events over the course of 2024, one of which is Police Appreciation Night, an awards gala highlighting the exemplary work of our staff. The 2024 event focused on acknowledging services provided by Victim Services of York Region and the York Region Centre for Community Safety, and honouring the individuals whose work is dedicated to helping victims of crime recover. With 1,000 attendees, the evening raised $604,000 in support of Victim Services and YRCCS, bringing the total raised over two years to $1 million. Police Appreciation Night will celebrate its 30th anniversary on May 8, 2025.
YRP’s largest fundraiser is Holiday Heroes, an annual tradition every November and December that provides new toys, clothing, food and monetary support for underserved families in York Region. This year’s campaign raised over $415,000, and the initiative has raised more than $2.1 million in support since its inception in 2008. Proceeds are directed to 20 partner agencies, including Victims Services of York Region, York Region Centre for Community Safety, the Salvation Army and local food banks.
Over the years, YRP has also raised more than $7.5 million for United Way and $1.31 million through its golf tournament.
“Whether it’s Holiday Heroes, our Police Appreciation Night dinner, golf tournaments, or our Special Olympics fundraisers, YRP pours its heart and soul into giving back to its community,” said Carrie Rutledge, Supervisor, Special Events Unit.
In 2024, YRP raised funds for charities like:
- Victim Services of York Region
- York Region Centre for Community Safety
- Special Olympics Ontario
- 360°kids
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of York / Peel
- Canadian Blood Services
- United Way of Greater Toronto
- Southlake Pediatric Oncology – Be a Hero Head Shave
- CMHA York Region – Mental Health Hub
- Salvation Army (Holiday Heroes)
- Food Banks
- PRIDE
- Blue Door
Canadian / Provincial Police Memorials
“2024 was a banner year for fundraising at YRP, exceeding all expectations. The funds raised will support thousands of people in need across York Region,” said Karen Richards, Senior Manager, Strategic Stakeholder Engagement.
“Our members work tirelessly to organize the events that raise critical dollars for our partners, along with soliciting donations from the public and contributing financially themselves.”
