by Greg Gangle, WEG Communications

Toronto, ON — Woodbine Entertainment Group has joined the Halton Police to help kick off the annual Toys for Tots campaign, which benefits the Salvation Army.

“This is a cause that employees, harness drivers, horsepeople and customers at Mohawk Racetrack have embraced,” said Wendy Loiselle, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, WEG. “This is the third year that the racing community has come together to ensure that all children living in the Halton region will experience the joy of Christmas.”

WEG/Michael Burns Photography

Rick Zeron presents a check for $5,000 to launch the 2012 Toys For Tots campaign.

Rick Zeron, one of Canada’s leading drivers who recently surpassed $100 million in career earnings and was inducted into the Oakville Sports Hall of Fame last year, was on hand to assist in launching the Toys for Tots campaign.

“It’s such a great initiative and I’m very pleased to be a part of it,” Zeron said. “To see so many people and families gathered together for this cause is great to see. It’s a special time of the year and to be able to contribute to the Toys for Tots campaign is something I’m proud of.”

In 2011 the campaign experienced record-breaking numbers with more than $330,000 in money raised while assisting 3,500 families.

“We are entering our 13th year and it has proven to be a tremendous success,” said Jody Wilson, Regional Manager for Toys for Tots and Constable for Halton Police. “Our goal each year is to provide steady growth to help families in their time of need. We have had terrific results and we hope that it continues for many years to come.”

Loiselle along with Zeron presented a check of $5,000 to launch the 2012 toy drive.

Woodbine Entertainment Group (www.woodbineentertainment.com) is the largest operator of horse racing in Canada and is recognized as one of the most innovative in North America. WEG operates Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, ON; Mohawk Racetrack in Campbellville, ON; the Champions Off-Track Wagering Network; Turf Lounge; WEGZ Stadium Bar; Horse Player Interactive and HPItv.

The Corporation has adopted a progressive and leading Corporate Social Responsibility agenda that is firmly woven into the fabric of its organization. By doing so, WEG has enhanced its reputation as an innovative and insightful leader, earning industry recognition, multiple awards and customer respect for its actions that serve the greater good.