Tis’ the season of giving, and The Hat wants you to give something that you can feel good about this holiday season.
We recognize how lucky we are to have the basic necessities and we know that many are not as fortunate, which is why we want to encourage you to give back this year (if you are able)!
All of us at The Hat have put together a list of charities that we know would love and appreciate any donation that you would be able to give them this year – and we’re sure it would bring them some holiday cheer.
1. SANTA’S ANONYMOUS
Since 1955 when the first campaign was organized, Santa’s Anonymous has had a single vision in mind — bettering the lives of children in Edmonton by delivering the “spirit of Christmas” to less fortunate families.
The whole community and volunteers work together tirelessly to make sure that this vision is fulfilled by December 25th. To contribute to making a child’s Christmas wish come true, click here for more information on how to get involved.
2. CHRISTMAS BUREAU OF EDMONTON
Since 1940, the Christmas Bureau has maintained one tradition – providing a festive meal and coordination of Christmas giving to Edmontonians in need at Christmas time through the promotion of the spirit of Christmas caring and sharing in the City of Edmonton.
They are a connector to over 90 social service agencies providing those in need a one stop application process for Christmas services. Client information is compiled by the Christmas Bureau into their database to provide food gift cards to accommodate all dietary needs. The client list is also used to provide gift cards for teens aged 13 to 17 years through the Christmas Bureau’s Adopt-A-Teen program and by 630 CHED Santas Anonymous Inc. for the delivery of toys to children ages 0 to 12 years.
There are many ways to support the Christmas Bureau – click here for a few ways that you can help out.
3. HOLIDAY HAMPER
The Holiday Hamper Program makes a difference in the lives of Edmonton families in need. Participants become Hamper Elves by adopting a local family – then shopping for a healthy festive meal and small gifts for the kids.
On Delivery Day, Hamper Elves come to the Expo Centre to receive turkeys, fresh produce, and their adopted family’s address from our team of volunteers. Then they are off to deliver joy to families in need in our community.
Here you can find a list of a few ways to help out!
4. RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
The Ronald McDonald House provides comfort and a safe haven for families with ill and injured children who need treatment. It is a “home away from home” and offers a place for families to stay when they need to travel to Edmonton to get medical treatment providing kitchens, parking, and family spaces.
They have a few new ways that you can give during the holidays, which you can learn more about here.
5. BOYLE STREET COMMUNITY SERVICES
Since 1971, Boyle Street Community Services has been supporting individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness and poverty in Edmonton. They work to help all people grow healthier through involvement in strong, accepting and respectful communities.
As the holiday season quickly approaches, they want to invite you to learn more about how you can continue to support our community through Holiday Giving opportunities, including holiday meal sponsorship, hosting your own fundraiser, and monetary gifting. Click here for more information on how you can support them this year.