Some journeys begin with leaving behind everything you know – not by choice but for safety. And when a woman arrives in a new country, the first thing she needs isn’t charity. It’s community, dignity and someone to say: “You’re not alone. We see you. We’re here for you.”
This holiday season, CIWA invites you to be Here for You, because when we give, volunteer, or share, we’re not just supporting a program; we’re showing up for a family.
Give More Than a Gift. Give a Sense of Belonging.
Ways to Support Families
When you donate, volunteer, or share, you’re saying: We’re here for you. Together, we can make this season a little brighter by ensuring families feel at home and have a sense of belonging in Canada
DONATE NOW
CIWA will use your donation to create a holiday hamper for a family.
BUILD A HAMPER
HOST A TOY DRIVE
Rally your team or community group for a toy drive
SPREAD THE WORD
Share the campaign with friends and family on a social media
Download the toolkit here
- Total raised 12%
Help us reach our $50,000 goal. Every contribution counts as the campaign runs until December 24, 2025.
2024 Adopt a Family Campaign Impact
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.
- Boost team spirit: Getting involved in community giving brings people together and helps everyone feel more connected and motivated.
- Show what your company cares about: When you support a cause, it highlights your commitment to doing good and making a real impact.
- 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.
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.
- $5 gets a box of cookies for kids
- $50 provides household items for a single mother
- $150 provides a hamper for a single mother with one child
- $350 provides a family of four with basic household goods
- $1,000 provides essentials for three families
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 promotes Adopt a Family?
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 and make the season brighter for everyone!
Questions?
Please contact Kemi Awodein at adoptafamily@ciwa.org or call (403) 263-4414 ext. 124.