Domi Giving Back

Wednesday, December 11, 2002
Toronto Sun

Santa Tie took time out from his hockey duties yesterday morning to help put a smile on the faces of some underprivileged children.

Decked out in Santa hat and a red (yes, red) Maple Leafs jersey, Tie Domi handed out presents to more than 200 wide-eyed kids at the Air Canada Centre yesterday. It's part of the Tie Domi Toys for Kids drive, which supplies gifts for children who live in area hostels and shelters.

This is the seventh year that Domi and his wife Leanne have spearheaded the charitable endeavour.

"The program involves handing out more than 4,000 gifts to about 1,000 kids once all is said and done," Domi said.

"Seventy-five per cent of the kids didn't even know who I was. They were saying, 'Who is Tie Domi?' They were just thrilled to be at the Air Canada Centre for the first time and receive gifts.

"Of all my charities, this is my favourite. I just want people to be aware of what these kids are going through. And it's getting worse."