For over 20 years, CIWA has helped immigrant and refugee women and children through Adopt a Family.
In 2023 alone, CIWA brought joy to nearly 300 families by providing them with essential support during the holiday season. This year, we aim to help even more families.
Every dollar donated goes towards providing meals, gifts for children, and renewed hope for families in need.
Join CIWA’s mission and help brighten lives this holiday season. Support Adopt a Family by clicking below.
In the past 3 years,
Families were helped
Children received toys
Was donated
Your generosity will
- Make a Positive Impact on the Local Community: Your participation helps strengthen the community by providing essential support to families in need, fostering a sense of unity and care.
- Foster Employee Morale and Team Building: Engaging in philanthropic initiatives boost employee morale and encourage teamwork as colleagues come together for a meaningful cause.
- Elevate Your Corporate Social Responsibility Profile: Demonstrating your commitment to social responsibility shows your company’s dedication to making a difference.
- Provide Direct Support to Families in Need: Your contributions offer immediate and tangible assistance to families, ensuring they receive the help they need during challenging times.
Ways to Support Families
PROVIDE FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Every dollar goes a long way
BUILD A HAMPER
Purchase food and essential supplies for families in need
HOST A TOY DRIVE
Bring joy to children in need
SPREAD THE WORD
Tell your friends, family, and colleagues
How your donation works
Every dollar counts! Your generous contribution, no matter the size, will join forces with others to bring comfort and joy to as many immigrant and refugee families as possible this holiday season.
- $50 provides household items for a single mother
- $75 provides toys for two children
- $150 provides a hamper for a single mother with one child
- $300 provides a hamper for a family of three
- $500 provides a hamper and household items for a family of five
- $1,000 provides essentials for two families in need
Frequently Asked Questions (And Helpful Answers!)
Looking for answers? Our FAQ section offers helpful solutions to the most common questions, making it easier for you to find the information you need quickly and confidently!
Can we meet the families we support?
To protect the privacy and dignity of the families we serve, we don’t arrange direct meetings between donors and recipients. However, we can share anonymized stories and feedback from families who have benefited from the program.
What kinds of household items can we collect?
We welcome a variety of new household items, including:
- Bedding and towels
- Kitchen utensils and small appliances
- Personal care items
- Cleaning supplies
- Winter clothing and accessories
Check out the full wishlist put together by our clients by clicking here: whish list
Which families receive hampers/gifts?
We carefully assess each family’s needs based on various factors such as family size, income level, recent arrival to Canada, and specific circumstances (e.g., single parents, families facing health challenges). Our goal is to support those most in need.
What kind of gift cards would you like to receive?
We appreciate gift cards from:
- Grocery stores (e.g., Superstore, Walmart, Safeway)
- Department stores (e.g., Canadian Tire, Walmart)
- Drugstores (e.g., Shoppers Drug Mart)
- Clothing stores (e.g., Old Navy, H&M)
Gift cards allow families to purchase items they specifically need.
Can we refer families to the program?
Yes, you can refer families to CIWA. Our team will assess their eligibility based on our criteria and available resources.
Can we sponsor a family we know of?
We appreciate your desire to help specific families. For fairness and privacy reasons, we manage the selection and matching process internally. However, you can refer a family to CIWA for assessment.
What kinds of volunteer opportunities do you have at CIWA to support the campaign?
We have various volunteer opportunities, including:
- Sorting and organizing donations
- Assembling gift hampers
- Assisting with gift distribution
How will CIWA promote and publicize our contribution?
We recognize our corporate partners through:
- Social media mentions
- Recognition on our website
- Thank you cards
Do you take food items? If so, what kind of foods?
Yes, we accept non-perishable food items such as:
- Canned goods (vegetables, fruits, soups)
- Pasta and rice
- Cooking oil
- Cereal and oatmeal
- Baby formula
- Tea and coffee
Please ensure all food items are unopened and within their expiration date.
Can our company host a collection drive? What items are most needed?
Absolutely! Company collection drives are extremely helpful. The most needed items often include:
- Winter clothing (new coats, boots, gloves)
- Personal care items
- Household cleaning supplies
- New toys for children
- Gift cards
We can provide a specific list of current needs for your drive.
Together we can reach more families in need and make the season brighter for everyone!
Questions?
Please contact Kemi Awodein at adoptafamily@ciwa-online.com or call (403) 263-4414 ext. 124.