Gifts of Hope Program

Provides a Christmas hamper to low-income families to alleviate some of the stresses of the holidays and allow families to experience the joys of the Christmas season. When parents sign up to receive Christmas support, they have the opportunity to attend financial and wellness workshops, find volunteer opportunities in the community, and will then be able to shop for free in the Hamper Store during the week before Christmas. Participants will have an appointed time to visit the store and select from children's gifts, household items, winter clothing, and grocery gift cards for their families. Also offers packaged carts and gift boxes for single women, including seniors. Interview and application required. Applications are available in August at Union Gospel Mission Women and Families Centre and are subject to approval; hampers are distributed in December.