Winter Warmth 2024: Bring Joy and Relief to Women in Need

As the holidays approach and winter sets in, many of us look forward to cozy moments with loved ones. But for women living in poverty or escaping abuse, this season can be overwhelming. With rising costs, even basic necessities like warm clothing and groceries become hard to afford. That’s where Winter Warmth comes in. 

At the Women’s Centre of York Region (WCYR), our Winter Warmth program offers relief and hope to women and children facing these challenges, and you can help make a difference. 

A Look Back at Last Year’s Impact 

Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, Winter Warmth 2023 distributed over $15,600 to 157 women and children. This support ensured families had warm clothing, groceries, and even small holiday gifts, helping them share in the season’s joy while alleviating financial stress. In 2024, we aim to help even more families but we need your help.

Why We Need Your Help Now More Than Ever 

Winter is already a challenging time for those facing financial hardship, but in recent years, the situation has become even more dire. Gender-based violence has been rising, and Ontario has officially declared intimate partner violence an epidemic. Coupled with the ongoing recession and inflation, the strain on families is greater than ever. That’s why Winter Warmth is more than just a program—it’s a lifeline for women and children in our community. 

How You Can Make a Difference 

We all know the joy of picking out the perfect gift for a loved one, especially for our children. Through Winter Warmth, you can give that same joy and relief to families in need. Here’s how you can help: 

  • Donate Online: Every dollar you give provides direct support to women and children in need. Donate online and receive an instant tax receipt. Click here to donate.

  • Sponsor a Family: By sponsoring a family, you’re providing targeted support to specific women and children. Fill out our sponsorship form by November 29, 2024, and we’ll match you with a family in need. Click here to sponsor a family. 

  • Host a Mini Fundraiser: Gather your friends, family, or colleagues and collect gift cards for grocery stores, Walmart, or prepaid Visa/MasterCard. Your collective effort will provide warmth and relief to families this winter. 

  • Engage Your Workplace or School: Challenge your workplace, school, or other groups to join in. Many hands make light work, and your efforts can spread warmth across our entire community. 

Monetary donations are accepted until December 31, 2024, ensuring no family is left without support. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help a mother keep her children warm and bring joy to their holiday season. 

Contact Us 

Have questions or need more information about Winter Warmth? Feel free to reach out to Allison or Anna at WCYR: 

With your help, we can bring joy, warmth, and relief to women and children in need this winter. Thank you for being a light in their lives this season! 

Allison Hermann