Christmas morning at Siloam Mission was unlike any other. For many community members who have spent significant time living on the street, it’s a day that often begins with little expectation. The struggles of daily life leave little room for celebration, and the idea of receiving a Christmas gift might feel like a distant memory – or something they’ve never experienced at all.
But this year, thanks to the incredible generosity and hard work of our volunteers and community, Christmas morning brought a touch of magic, warmth, and hope to those who needed it most.
As the sun crept up, volunteers had already transformed Siloam Mission, the Arlene Wilson Recovery Centre (The Nest), the Madison, and Roblin, into a festive celebration.
April, a dedicated kitchen volunteer, had worked tirelessly to collect Christmas cards from children across the city. She wanted to bring a sprinkle of holiday joy and love to the community members at Siloam Mission, many of whom often feel forgotten during the holidays. Each card, filled with heartfelt messages and drawings, carried the spirit of compassion and connection to everyone who received it.
“This project was a beautiful reminder that the true season lies in showing empathy and making others feel valued,” April said.
In our office boardroom, three incredible long-time donation-sorting volunteers, affectionately known as “the Christmas trio,” worked with care to make sure every gift was wrapped with love.
“We want them to know that someone thought about them,” one of the ladies shared, as she carefully packed the last of the Christmas goodies into a backpack.
Meanwhile, Tessa, our former CEO, and her basketball team poured their hearts into packing the Christmas backpacks. The team’s children played special roles, each paired with a resident from The Nest, carefully selecting and purchasing gifts that would bring joy and comfort.
When it came time to open their Christmas gifts, the impact was deeply moving. One gentleman, with tears in his eyes, said, “This is the first Christmas present I’ve received in over 15 years. I didn’t think anyone cared.”
Another woman, holding a small package containing everyday essentials close to her heart, quietly whispered, “This gift has shown me someone really cares. It means the world to me.”
Over at Siloam’s supportive housing unit on Roblin Boulevard, the spirit of Christmas continued to shine brightly. Residents there also received special gifts, reminding them that they weren’t alone.
Requests like honey, a poinsettia, and a Jets hat filled their holiday wish lists, and the Assiniboine Crossing Condo Community in Charleswood went above and beyond to make sure each resident’s request was fulfilled. Many residents there were also moved to tears.
“It’s nice to know that someone is thinking of us,” one resident shared.
Jessica Smith, Manager of Supportive Housing at Siloam Mission, explained how these thoughtful gifts made a lasting impact: “Some residents have no family to celebrate the holidays with, so this meant a lot to them.”
Next door, St. Mary Anglican Church stepped in to provide a food and clothing bank for the residents, adding to the sense of connection and support that made the season so meaningful. These acts of kindness remind us that a home is about more than just providing stable housing for its residents – it’s about creating a sense of belonging.
The support from the Charleswood neighborhood is a beautiful reminder of the power of community. By embracing a “Yes In My Backyard” (YIMBY) mindset, communities like Charleswood are showing us that supportive housing can strengthen neighbourhoods and benefit everyone.
“Susan Brown from St. Mary Anglican Church and the residents of the Assiniboine Condo Community are true examples of how we can all show a little more love, care, and compassion. They are embracing the opportunity to be part of creating a Winnipeg without homelessness in their own unique ways!” Smith said.
This holiday season, we are so thankful for the donations to our Christmas campaign. The support of local farms, businesses, and community groups has been invaluable. Contributions from partners like the Hutterite Colonies, Fill the Freightliner team, Winnipeg Kinsmen, Super Auto Centres, Costco, Natural Bakery, and Burnbrae Farms, among others, have played a vital role in helping us meet the needs of those we serve.
Looking forward, the spirit of giving that shone so brightly over the holidays will continue throughout the year. As we prepare for our next big meal at Easter, we’re reminded of how deeply these moments matter. For many in our community, healing begins with a meal. And that meal shared with kindness can be a turning point, offering hope and connection when it’s needed most.
These acts of generosity, alongside countless others, demonstrate the power of working together for a common cause and towards a common vision. Your support, whether big or small, strengthens our mission and allows us to continue offering hope and assistance to those in need.
