During the Christmas season, Adventist Community Services (ACS) Winnipeg and ADRA brought warmth and dignity to families in Winnipeg, Manitoba, through the distribution of Christmas hampers from a local community center. Working in partnership with several churches, ADRA supported over 60 families, reminding them that they were seen, valued, and not alone during the holidays.
A key partner in the distribution was the Henderson Highway Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Orion Belt Pathfinder Club, whose youth volunteers played an active role in handing out gifts and assisting families. Their energy and commitment helped create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere for all attendees.
The hampers were made possible through generous donations from church members and partners. In addition to food and household items, ADRA set up a special table just for women, stocked with beauty items donated by church members. Each woman was invited to choose a cream, perfume sample, or small personal item, an intentional gesture to restore dignity and offer a moment of care during a difficult season.
Local businesses also stepped in to support the effort. First Impressions Salon donated Aveda shampoo and conditioner samples, adding an extra touch of kindness to the hampers. ADRA also partnered with Henderson Highway Church, Transcona Church, Lighthouse of Hope Church, Nueva Esperanza Church, and Silver Heights Church, demonstrating the power of collaboration across congregations.
Beyond the Christmas outreach, ADRA also collaborated with several First Nations communities to provide and distribute $27,000 in support of families affected by the wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In addition, ADRA engaged in awareness and capacity-building efforts through the End It Now campaign, delivering Trauma-Informed Church presentations in Saskatoon and North Battleford, Saskatchewan. These sessions equipped church leaders and members with tools to recognize, respond to, and prevent abuse, strengthening community care and protection.
Through partnerships, volunteer efforts, and donor generosity, this Christmas initiative shared more than gifts; it shared hope, compassion, and solidarity when they were needed most.
