This winter, as temperatures plummeted and the harsh realities of the season set in, the Share the Warmth Campaign stepped up to provide critical support to families and individuals in need. Despite working with limited funds, Human Concern International (HCI) was able to make a tangible impact by distributing 1,000 winter kits, 260 jackets, and 600 hot meals across five cities. This initiative ensured that those facing the bitter cold could find warmth, nourishment, and a renewed sense of hope.
In recent years, Canada has faced a concerning rise in homelessness and poverty. Economic challenges, housing shortages, and inflation have left more people than ever struggling to make ends meet. For many, the winter months amplify these struggles, turning already difficult conditions into life-threatening situations. The Share the Warmth Campaign aimed to address this growing crisis by offering tangible support to those most affected.
The winter kits, thoughtfully prepared to include essential items like blankets, gloves, hats, and scarves, were distributed to families who lacked even the most basic resources to protect themselves from the cold. These kits offered more than just physical warmth; they provided reassurance that someone cared about their well-being during these challenging times.
For the elderly, durable and warm jackets were a vital resource, helping them to withstand the unforgiving winter weather. Many of these individuals had been living in precarious conditions, and the gift of a warm jacket meant they could face the season with greater dignity and comfort. Meanwhile, the hot meals brought immediate relief to those who had gone without a proper meal for days. These meals offered more than nourishment — they were a symbol of compassion and solidarity. Our staff and volunteers had the opportunity to speak directly with individuals experiencing homelessness.
After the event, one volunteer remarked “I feel bad going to a warm home now knowing that the people we helped today are going to sleep on the streets”.
This year, the campaign included a special initiative through HCI’s Gaza Newcomers Support program. The program enabled HCI to hire four Gazan evacuees to help prepare the hot meals distributed during the campaign. For these individuals, who had recently arrived in the community after enduring unimaginable hardships, this opportunity meant more than just employment. It gave them a sense of purpose and a chance to rebuild their lives in a meaningful way while giving back to the community that welcomed them.
The evacuees worked tirelessly to create delicious, home-cooked meals that were later distributed to the homeless by the dedicated HCI team. This initiative not only allowed the evacuees to earn a modest income but also empowered them to contribute to their new community in a significant and heartfelt way. One of the evacuees shared, “We are in Canada now, it is our responsibility to give back”.
None of this would have been possible without the generosity of HCI’s donors, the hard work of volunteers, and the unwavering commitment of the HCI staff. From organizing the logistics to personally delivering items to those in need, the team’s dedication ensured that the campaign was a success.
The Share the Warmth Campaign is a testament to the power of community and compassion. It showed that, even in the face of limited resources, it’s possible to make a significant impact when people come together with a shared purpose.
As the season comes to a close, HCI remains committed to supporting vulnerable communities year-round locally and internationally. The success of this campaign has reinforced the importance of continuing to build programs that provide not only immediate relief but also long-term opportunities for empowerment and resilience.
To everyone who contributed to the Share the Warmth Campaign — thank you for being a source of light and warmth in the coldest months. Together, we’ve made a difference that will be remembered long after the winter has passed.
Human Concern International is the oldest Muslim relief organization in Canada, fighting poverty for over 40 years.
We are a registered charity with the CRA. Charitable Registration No. 107497125 RR 0001