By Gazette Staff

December 18th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

As the year comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your continued support of United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Holiday Helping Hand program. Your coverage and partnership play a critical role in helping our community understand both the need, and the impact, of coming together during the holidays.

This year, thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, partners the Holiday Helping Hand distributed approximately $220,000 in financial relief, supporting more than 5,000 people through 27 community partner agencies across Halton and Hamilton. This represents a $70,000 increase over last year, reflecting both rising community need and an incredible response from the community.

Behind these numbers are real families experiencing relief, dignity, and moments of hope during what can be an especially challenging time of year. From essential kits and toys to volunteer support and dignity-centred delivery, this program continues to show the power of neighbours helping neighbours.

Holiday Helping Hand was created in direct response to the increasing pressure being felt by both families and the frontline agencies that support them year-round. Many local organizations experience a surge in demand during the holidays, while operating with limited capacity.

Parents able to focus on their children, individuals able to meet basic needs, and households experiencing a sense of stability during a challenging time.

“This program is about mobilizing the generosity that already exists in our community and directing it where it’s needed most,” said Park. “Holiday Helping Hand helps relieve pressure on local agencies while ensuring people receive support in ways that respect their dignity and individual circumstances.”

Through the initiative, community members are able to give in meaningful ways, by volunteering at United Way-supported agencies, sponsoring families, or donating essential items such as grocery gift cards, toys, hygiene supplies, bedding, and clothing.

Impact by the Numbers

 This year’s Holiday Helping Hand program delivered tangible, life-changing support, including:

• 217 families supported, representing 706 people, with 100 percent of registered families served, including families added just one week before registration closed
• 1,022 essential kits distributed to help meet urgent needs
• 533 stocking stuffers collected, valued at $2,665
• $73,440 worth of toys donated, benefiting approximately 2,448 people
• 327 volunteers contributing their time across 28 Days of Caring shifts at partner agencies and 9 kit drive opportunities

Behind these numbers are real families and real moments of relief. Parents able to focus on their children, individuals able to meet basic needs, and households experiencing a sense of stability during a challenging time.