Stew's News - December 2025

As both bank rates and temperatures continue to drop, just thought I'd drop a friendly reminder of how important it is to give some extra help to those in need during the holiday season. Although we all have our "go tos", below is a list of the many charitable organizations and volunteer opportunities available during the holiday season, and beyond.

I hope you find the gift of giving this season as rewarding as I do!

Food Banks and Meal Programs

Food insecurity rises during winter months, and food banks see increased demand. Winnipeg Harvest is one of the largest food banks in the city, offering multiple ways to volunteer. You can help sort donations, pack food hampers, or assist with distribution. Many local churches and community centers also run meal programs where volunteers serve hot meals to those facing hardship.

Example: Volunteer shifts at Winnipeg Harvest’s warehouse often involve sorting fresh produce and packing boxes for families. This hands-on work directly supports people struggling to afford groceries.

Toy Drives and Gift Wrapping

Many organizations collect toys and gifts to brighten the holidays for children in need. The Salvation Army and Christmas Cheer Board organize toy drives and gift wrapping events. Volunteers help by sorting donated toys, wrapping presents, and preparing gift packages for distribution.

Example: At the Christmas Cheer Board, volunteers wrap hundreds of gifts that go to families across Winnipeg. This simple act brings smiles to children who might otherwise go without presents.

Homeless Shelters and Warming Centers

Winnipeg’s cold winters make shelters and warming centers essential. Volunteers provide support by serving meals, distributing warm clothing, or simply spending time with guests. Places like Main Street Project and Siloam Mission welcome volunteers to help create a safe, welcoming environment.

Example: At Siloam Mission, volunteers assist in the dining hall during Christmas dinners, ensuring everyone receives a hot meal and friendly conversation.

Senior Care Facilities and Hospitals

Many seniors face loneliness during the holidays. Volunteering at senior care homes offers companionship and festive cheer. Activities include organizing holiday crafts, reading stories, or leading sing-alongs. These visits can brighten a senior’s day and create lasting memories.

Example: Volunteer groups at Riverview Health Centre often host Christmas parties where they help decorate, serve refreshments, and engage residents in holiday activities.

Refugee and Immigrant Support

Newcomers to Winnipeg may face extra challenges during the holidays, including isolation and financial strain. Organizations like Welcome Place and the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM) offer volunteer roles to help with holiday meal preparation, gift distribution, and cultural celebrations.

Example: Volunteers at IRCOM help organize holiday dinners where families from diverse backgrounds share food and traditions, fostering community connections.

Animal Shelters

For animal lovers, volunteering at shelters like the Winnipeg Humane Society can be a rewarding way to give back. During Christmas, shelters often need extra hands to care for animals, clean facilities, and assist with adoption events.

Example: Holiday volunteers help prepare special treats and decorations for shelter animals, ensuring they feel loved during the season.

Hospital Volunteer Programs

Hospitals welcome volunteers to support patients and staff during the holidays. Roles include delivering gifts, assisting with holiday events, or providing comfort visits. Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface Hospital have volunteer programs that increase activity during Christmas.

Example: Volunteers at St. Boniface Hospital help distribute holiday cards and small gifts to patients, bringing cheer to those spending Christmas away from home.

Clothing Drives and Winter Gear Distribution

Many Winnipeg residents need warm clothing to face the cold months. Organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross and local churches run clothing drives and distribute winter gear. Volunteers sort donations, pack kits, and help with distribution events.

Example: The Red Cross organizes winter gear giveaways where volunteers assist families in selecting coats, boots, and mittens.

And the list goes on!

If you are still looking for the right volunteer opportunity, check out Volunteer Manitoba, they may have what you're looking for.

And of course, if you can't donate your time, charitable organizations of all stripes are always happy to receive donations of items or money, just be sure if it is items that they are items the organization is looking for, as for money, Canadian is preferred.

That's all for now folks!

I hope you are already beginning to enjoy some festivities with family and friends and are gearing up for a joyous holiday season.

In the meantime, it appears the rates in Stew's November News are holding for the most part. If your new year’s plans involve buying or selling a property then give me a call!  

Finally, don't forget to read my recent post on preparing your home for winter because it is upon us!