WELCOME TO HOLIDAY HELPING HAND!
United Way Halton & Hamilton is excited to announce that the Holiday Helping Hand Program is open for 2025!
Wednesday, December 10
Due to the expected weather conditions, our Holiday Helping Hand warehouse will be closed tomorrow. We will reopen and resume operations on Thursday.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Gavan at gbadh@uwhh.ca or (548) 885-4004
All Holiday Helping Hand families have been adopted - thank you!
We are pleased to announce that every family registered in this year’s Holiday Helping Hand program has been matched, thanks to the generosity of our community.
If you are still looking to support local families this season, please consider making a financial gift. Donations directly support essential services that help families in need during the holidays and long after the season ends.
Your support strengthens our community and uplifts local children and families when it matters most.
There are 4 ways you can make a difference this holiday season:
ADOPT-A-FAMILY
Register below to sponsor one of our families. Families vary in size—whether it’s a family of 2 or a family of 8, please choose the appropriate size for you or your group to sponsor. Please review spending FAQ’s carefully before signing up.
Please note our submissions are CLOSED. If you or your family are in need of assistance this holiday season, please reach out to 211 or visit 211ontario.ca for holiday programs still accepting submissions or to find an agency that can assist you in your area.
- Choose your family below based on your spending budget (see guidelines in the FAQ’s).
- Register online (be sure to check off the box “I will attend” to receive the email).
- Receive a confirmation email with an instruction kit including the family information and wish lists.
- Didn’t get the email? Check your spam/junk– not there? Contact us communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca
- Start shopping for the family or coordinate and collect gifts with your group.
- Print off wish lists or use the reference # and attach it to each gift.
- Drop off your gifts December 8th and 9th, 2025 to our Community Donation Warehouse (located in Burlington). Info is included in the instruction kit within the confirmation email– please sign up as soon as possible for a drop off time as they can go quickly.
- Share with friends, family and colleauges! Post your pictures on social media, using the hashtag #HolidayHelpingHand and don’t forget to tag @UnitedWayHH!
Q: How much should I spend per family?
A: We ask that you provide the family with a grocery gift card based on the family’s size so they can enjoy a wonderful holiday meal together with all the fixings. Each instruction kit will include the number of people in the family as well as their preferred grocery store. We suggest allocating $50 per family member for the grocery gift card. Please remember that additional adults listed as part of the family are dependents (seniors, disabled adults, students etc.) living in the home.
Click here to view the Suggested Spending Guide
You will receive a wish list for each child 18 and under. Wish lists include three needs and three wants in the $50 range. To make a child’s holiday truly special, we suggest you pick at least one ‘need’ and one ‘want’ from their wish list – a gift of comfort and a gift of joy. The suggested spending is $100-$150 per child (in addition to the family grocery gift card).
Q: I can’t afford to sponsor a family on my own, but I still want to help.
A: That’s OK. Please consider signing up to donate to our gift drives or building kits (teen stocking items, hygiene kits, seniors’ kits, household essentials, etc). This helps ensure that individuals, including but not limited to vulnerable adults experiencing challenging times, adults living with developmental disabilities and/or isolated seniors have a gift this holiday season. This also helps fulfill last-minute family requests. Please also consider joining forces with your co-workers or family/friends to pool your resources and give a family a truly wonderful gift this season.
Q: What if we want to really spoil the family and buy things beyond what is listed?
A: We love that you want to do this, however, every year we have families that unfortunately do not get sponsored. We strive to ensure that EVERY family get’s adopted, leaving no one behind this holiday season. If you have extra resources, please consider adopting another family and providing them with a happy holiday season as well.
Q: I signed up but I didn’t get an email.
A: Step 1) Check your spam or junk mail. Step 2) Still not there? Please email us at communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca and we will be sure to resend the information to you directly.
Q: Should I wrap the gifts?
A: We ask that the gifts come unwrapped to allow parents the opportunity to take part in making things special for their children. Although it is not mandatory, please consider including gift bags, wrapping paper, tape or bows.
Q: Can I get more information about the family?
A: All participating families reside in Halton or Hamilton and have confirmed financial need. After signing up, you will receive more information about your specific family in your Instruction Kit, included in the confirmation email.
Q: Can I include a card with my name/my workplace name?
A: Due to confidentiality laws and out of respect for the dignity and privacy of everyone involved, we cannot share any names. If you wish to include a card, we request that no last names or identifying features are on it, including company names or logos.
Q: Can I purchase gifts for the parents?
A: We often get asked about including gifts for parents. Due to space limitations and other concerns, we do not gather specific information about parents. However, if you wish to include something for them, we suggest dinner/food gift cards, movie passes, department store gift cards, or hygiene products.
Q: What if I change my mind or can’t fulfill my commitment to sponsor the family I chose?
A: Please try your best to confirm your commitment prior to signing up, although we do understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. Please let us know ASAP and if time permits, we can try to find an alternative sponsor.
Families
Registration is now closed.
Choose a family below that fits your heart and your budget. Click here to view the SUGGESTED SPENDING GUIDE.
If a family is marked as FULL or “NO TICKETS AVAILABLE”, it has already been adopted.
Questions? Email communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca
- Family: Parents, Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Daughter (12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Daughter (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (11), Son (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Sons (6 months, 9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Sons (11, 13, 16)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Daughters (12, 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Son (10), Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Son (6), 2 Daughters (7, 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, 4 Daughters (3, 6, 10, 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, 2 Sons (7, 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Daughters (11, 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (8), Son (9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, 2 Sons (10, 14), 2 Daughters (6, 12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Son (9), Daughter (11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Daughter (8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Sons (10, 11), 2 Daughters (4, 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (14), Son (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Daughters (10, 12, 15), 3 Sons (6, 10, 17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Sons (9, 12, 17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (1 month)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Dad, Grandparents, 3 Daughters (5, 3½, 2½)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (2)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (3)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Sons (5, 4)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (newborn)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Newborn (due November)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (10 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (newborn)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (5 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (23 months), Baby (on the way)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Sons (4, 2, 1)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (1), Son (2)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (7), Baby (on the way)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (2 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (3)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Parents, Son (1 year)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (4, 10 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (2)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (4), Daughter (2)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Sons (1½, 4 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Grandma, Son (1)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (3)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Sons (4, 3 months), Daughter (3)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (6 turning 7 in December)
- Registration & Details: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (2 months)
- Registration & Details: FULL
- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (17, 13), 3 Sons (15, 15, 11)
- Details & Registration: FuLL
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- Family: Dad, 2 Daughters (14, 12), Son (9)
- Details & Registration: FuLL
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- Family: Mom, Grandma, Non-Binary Child (17), Son (16), 2 Daughters (15, 13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Daughters (16, 14), 3 Sons (14, 12, 10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (15), Daughter (12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (17), 2 Daughters (14, 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Grandparents, 2 Daughters (15, 9), 2 Sons (14, 12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Dad, Grandparents, Son (7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (9), Daughter (6)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 4 Children (Female 6, Female 13, Female 15, Male 17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 3 Children (Female 6, Male 12, Female 17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Children (Female 10, Male 7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Female 13, Female 15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Female 13, Male 15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 4 Children (Female 17, Male 10, Male 5, Male 2 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parents, 3 Children (Female 10, Male 8, Female 2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Grandparent, 3 Children (Female 8, Male 3, Male 3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 7, Female 9, Male 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Individual Female (17) (living in group home)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (4, 6)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (10, 4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 4 Children (Female 12, Female 9, Male 7, Female 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Daughters (11, 7, 2½)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Daughter (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (14), Daughter (8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Dad, Daughter (2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Children (Female 14, Female 7, Male 9 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, 2 Sons (5, 4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (3, 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Female 8, Female 4, Male 3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 17, Female 10, Female 8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 14, Female 13, Male 3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 16, Male 11, Female 7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Sons (8, 8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Female 14, Male 17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Female 14, Male 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Male 5, Female 7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 4, Female 4, Female 13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 4 Children (Male 15, Male 11, Female 7, Female 1 month)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Male 12, Female 16)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Female 8, Male 3, Male 3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 1 Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 1 Daughters (14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Children (Male 14, Female 8, Infant)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 14, Male 12, Female 10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 18, Female 12, Infant)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 5 Children (Female 17, Male 14, Male 7, Female 6, Male 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Male 6, Female 2, Female 1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Daughters (8, 15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Female 14, Male 8, Male 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 4 Children (Female 15, Male 15, Female 9, Male 18)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 6 Children (Female 17, Male 13, Female 13, Female 12, Male 9, Male 10 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Female 16, Male 13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Daughters (17, 12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Daughters (7, 4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Female 4, Male 10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Daughters (13, 11)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Female 13, Female 11, Male 8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Female 9, Male 15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Sons (11, 14, 18)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Daughter (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 5 Children (Female 7, Female 5, Male 1, Male 1 month, Female 4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 3 Children (Female 6, Female 9, Male 15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Infant Son (3 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 3 Children (Female 13, Male 9, Female 2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Male 9, Female 12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Female 14 months, Male 5 years)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3 years)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Children (Male 11 months, Female 14 years)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Daughter (13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, Son (4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (2½)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Female 6, Male 9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (2½)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Son (1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (9, 8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Dad, 2 Sons (11, 7)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (8 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, Son (18 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (13 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2 years)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (2, 1 month)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (1)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (21 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (22 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2 years)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (21 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (6 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (3 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (8 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (14 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (6 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (newborn)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (5 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (11 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (11 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (6 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Newborn (due April 4th)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (11 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (5 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Newborn (due April 11th)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (14 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (3 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (4 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (9 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, 2 Daughters (10, 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 6 Children (Male 17, Male 14, Male 9, Female 3, Male 2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (8)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Male 17, Female 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Daughter (14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Male 10, Female 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (3)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, 2 Children (Male 10, Female 9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (15 months)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Mom, Son (2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (7), Son (10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 3 Children (Male 7, Female 8, Male 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Daughters (5, 9)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Sons (7, 4)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 3 Children (Male 4, Male 7, Female 10)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Children (Male 8, Female 12)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Son (15)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 3 Children (Female 6, Male 9, Female 13)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Children (Male 5, Female 16)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (16)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Twins (Male 5, Female 5)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Sons (16, 14)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, 2 Daughters (7, 2)
- Details & Registration: FULL
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- Family: Parent, Daughter (17)
- Details & Registration: FULL
GIFT DRIVES
Registration is now closed.
Give back and get in the holiday spirit by joining a gift drive this season! Whether you purchase a gift or organize a drive with co-workers, friends, or family, it’s a wonderful way to spread joy and make the season merry and bright for all. Gift drives are a fun and meaningful way to come together for a good cause. Donate anything from stocking stuffers and toys to gift cards and more!
- Choose the gift drive(s) you would like to participate in.
- Register online (be sure to check off the box “I will attend” to receive the email).
- Receive a confirmation email with an instruction kit including suggested items.
- Didn’t get the email? Check your spam/junk– not there? Contact us at communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca
- Click here to see gift suggestions: Gift Giving Guide
- Start shopping and/or collect gifts from your group.
- Drop off gifts December 8th and 9th, 2025 to our Community Donation Warehouse (located in Burlington). Info is included in the instruction kit included in the confirmation email– please sign up as soon as possible for a drop off time as they can go quickly.
- Share with friends, family and colleauges! Post your pictures on social media, using the hashtag #HolidayHelpingHand and don’t forget to tag @UnitedWayHH!
Q: What items are most needed?
A: Click here to see gift suggestions: Gift Giving Guide
Please note that we only accept new items.
Q: I signed up but I didn’t get an email.
A: Step 1) Check your spam or junk mail. Step 2) Still not there? Please email us at communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca and we will be sure to resend the information to you directly.
Q: Should I wrap the gifts?
A: We ask that the gifts come unwrapped. Although not mandatory, please consider including gift bags, wrapping paper, tape or bows.
Gift Drives
Give back and get in the holiday spirit! Purchase a gift card or run a gift card drive with coworkers or friends to help make the season merry and bright for all! Suggested gift cards provided with registration.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
Give back and get in the holiday spirit! Purchase a gift or run a gift drive with coworkers or friends to help make the season merry and bright for all! Suggested items provided with registration.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
BUILD KITS
Registration is now closed.
Give back and get in the holiday spirit with your family, friends, or co-workers! Purchase items and create kits to help make the season merry and bright for all! These kits may include baby kits, household essentials, adult, teen stockings, seniors’ gifts and so on. See below for a complete list and sign up today.
- Choose the kit(s) you would like to build and donate.
- Register online (be sure to check off the box “I will attend” to receive the email).
- Receive an email with the instructions.
- Didn’t get the email? Check your spam/junk– still not there? Contact us communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca
- Go shopping and/or collect kit contents from your group.
- Assemble kits (see FAQ’s for more info).
- Drop off gifts December 8th and 9th, 2025 to our Community Donation Warehouse (located in Burlington). Info is included in the instruction kit included in the confirmation email– please sign up as soon as possible for a drop off time as they can go quickly.
- Share with friends, family and colleauges! Post your pictures on social media, using the hashtag #HolidayHelpingHand and don’t forget to tag @UnitedWayHH!
Q: How much does the average kit cost to build?
A: Amounts can vary depending on the type of kit, current sales and promotions and which items you choose to include. Here are some examples:
- Baby Kit — (Diapers $30, Baby Wipes $5, Baby Wash $5, Baby Shampoo $5) = $45
- Seniors Kit – (Crossword Book $5, Slippers/Socks/Gloves $20, Candies $5, Shampoo/Conditioner $10) = $45
- Household Essentials – (Paper Towels $3, Toilet Paper $5, Dish Soap $5, Shampoo/Conditioner $10, Deodorant $5, Tissues $2) = $30
Q: How many kits should I make?
A: You can make one or you can make many! It’s a wonderful group activity for you and your family, friends or co-workers.
Q: What type of bag or container should I put the kits in?
A: You can use any bags that work for the size of your items. Gift bags, reusable store bags, felt bags and/or stockings are all great options. Diaper bags are a nice touch for baby kits.
Build Kits
There are no limits to the number of registrations for the opportunities below.
Our Senior Care Kits project, part of United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Holiday Helping Hand program, brings comfort, warmth, and connection to seniors in our community. These care kits are specially designed to support older adults who may face isolation or have limited resources during the holiday season. Each kit is thoughtfully prepared with essential items, cozy gifts, and personal touches to let our seniors know they are remembered and valued.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
Teens are amongst the most forgotten about population over the holidays. Many agencies that serve youth in our community are looking for help this holiday season. We are collecting stocking stuffers specifically to help put smiles on the faces of teens this holiday season. Purchase a couple stocking stuffers or host a collection drive with coworkers or friends to help make the season merry and bright for all!
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
With the rising cost of inflation, many people are struggling to afford basic necessities, such as household and personal hygiene items. Organizations have reached out to United Way asking for help with basic household supplies for the clients they support. We are looking for volunteers to purchase a variety of household essential items and assemble kits for people in need. Suggested items provided with registration.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
Give back and get in the holiday spirit! We are collecting stocking stuffers specifically for adults to help put smiles on the faces of adults this holiday season. Purchase a couple stocking stuffers or a host collection drive with coworkers or friends to help make the season merry and bright for all!
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
Periods are a fact of life. Menstruation products are a basic necessity, but if you’re living in poverty – or vulnerable in other ways – access to tampons, pads, cups or menstrual underwear can be challenging. Organizations have reached out to UWHH this holiday season asking menstrual hygiene products for the clients they support.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
Over the holidays, many parents struggle to make ends meet as they take on additional expenses. Baby essentials are one of the biggest needs for mothers and families experiencing poverty. They are expensive. United Way is looking for volunteers to purchase items and build kits that have supplies that can last for at least a month. Suggested items provided with registration.
Details & Registration: CLICK HERE
VOLUNTEER
We have lots of opportunities for you to make a difference in the community, from wrapping gifts to behind-the-scenes support. These are perfect activities for team building or individuals that want to get involved in community this holiday season.
- Choose the volunteer project you and your group (if applicable) would like to participate in.
- Register online (be sure to check off the box “I will attend” to receive the email). PLEASE NOTE: Each person must register on their own.
- Receive an email with the instructions.
- Didn’t get the email? Check your spam/junk– not there? Contact us communitydonationwarehouse@uwhh.ca
- Review the instructions in the email regarding the volunteer activity including date/time, parking, what to bring etc. (see FAQ’s for more info).
- Attend volunteer activity on the specified date/time.
- Share with friends, family and colleauges! Post your pictures on social media, using the hashtag #HolidayHelpingHand and don’t forget to tag @UnitedWayHH!
Q: I have a group that would like to volunteer, how do I know how many spots are currently available?
A: Please contact your UW campaign staff rep or Gavan Badh at gbadh@uwhh.ca to discuss volunteer opportunities for your group.
Q: How do I know whom my staff contact is when I arrive at the volunteer location?
A: UWHH will connect with you via email approximately one week before your volunteer shift to e-introduce you to your on-site contact.
Q: Can I sign up for more than one volunteer activity?
A: Yes, but please ensure that the dates/times do not overlap or give you enough time for travel between events.
Q: Do I need to bring anything to the volunteer activity?
A: Please read the information in the instruction kit emailed to you after registering. Each kit includes information regarding parking, what to bring, whether snacks/lunch/dinner will be provided or if you need to bring your own depending on the length of the event etc.
Q: I am a high school student and need community service hours, can I sign up?
A: Yes, some volunteer activities are open to high school students. This information will be listed under each volunteer activity (All ages or 18+). If you are unsure, please contact gbadh@uwhh.ca. We’re happy to sign off on community hours. Please connect with us to coordinate.
Volunteer Opportunities
See Registration Deadlines Below
UWHH Community Donation Warehouse is magically transformed into the Holiday Helping Hand workshop. In order to be prepared for the agency to pick-up their items, we need help to sort donations in order to prepare the warehouse for our holiday helping hand program.
SHIFT ONE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 4-10 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, November 20th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 3057 Mainway, Burlington, ON L7M 1A3
- Registration Deadline: Thursday, November 13th
–
SHIFT TWO:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 4-10 volunteers needed
- Date: Tuesday, December 2nd
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: 3058 Mainway, Burlington, ON L7M 1A1
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 26th
–
SHIFT THREE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 4-10 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, December 4th
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: 3059 Mainway, Burlington, ON L7M 1A1
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 26th
Community Living Burlington is participating in Tim Horton’s Smile Cookie Campaign. Volunteers will assist Tim Horton stores with decorating cookies and standing at the drive-thru to promote the campaign.
SHIFT ONE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Monday, November 17th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Monday, November 10th
–
SHIFT TWO:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Tuesday, November 18th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Tuesday, November 11th
–
SHIFT THREE:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Wednesday, November 19th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 12th
–
SHIFT FOUR:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, November 20th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Thursday, November 13th
–
SHIFT FIVE:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Friday, November 21st
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Friday, November 14th
–
SHIFT SIX:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Saturday, November 22nd
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Friday, November 14th
–
SHIFT SEVEN:
CLOSED FOR REGISTRATION
- 1-3 volunteers needed
- Date: Sunday, November 23rd
- Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: Burlington Tim Hortons – location will be confirmed once registered
- Registration Deadline: Friday, November 14th
Volunteers will wrap, label, and organize presents donated through our Holiday Sponsorship Program.
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 5-20 volunteers needed
- Date: Tuesday, December 9th
- Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: 484 Kerr Street, Oakville, ON L6K 3C5
Living Rock will be hosting their annual Christmas banquet where they transform to welcome 120 youth and their children. They are in need for volunteers to help them set-up two rooms, as a Banquet Space during the day.
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 4-8 volunteers needed
- Date: Monday, December 22nd
- Time: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
- Location: 30 Wilson Street, Oakville, ON L6K 3G2
- Registration Deadline: Friday, December 5th
Volunteers can come and assist the moms and babies as they prepare for Christmas, whether it’s helping wrap presents, assisting the with some shopping, or getting the home ready by cleaning, sorting and organizing donations.
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-6 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, December 11th
- Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Burlington – address will be shared once registered
- Registration Deadline: Friday, December 5th
Community Living Burlington is looking volunteers to support gift wrapping for their Secret Santa Drive.
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 5-15 volunteers needed
- Date: Wednesday, December 17th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Location: 3057 Mainway, Burlington, ON L7M 1A3
- Registration Deadline: Friday, December 5th
Your team will help sort and pack GOOD, surplus food like fruits and vegetables to get ready to be shared with neighbours and other community agencies across Halton, Hamilton and beyond.
SHIFT ONE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 8-15 volunteers needed
- Date: Tuesday, December 9th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Location: 2258 Mountainside Drive, Burlington, ON L7P 1B7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, December 3rd
–
SHIFT TWO:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 9-15 volunteers needed
- Date: Wednesday, December 10th
- Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Location: 2259 Mountainside Drive, Burlington, ON L7P 1B6
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, December 3rd
–
SHIFT THREE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 10-15 volunteers needed
- Date: Wednesday, December 10th
- Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
- Location: 2260 Mountainside Drive, Burlington, ON L7P 1B7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, December 3rd
Hope Place is looking for volunteers to help them get their garden ready for next spring by planting vegetables so they can ensure they have something fresh to provide for next year.
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 10-25 volunteers needed
- Date: Friday, November 7th
- Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
- Location: 8173 Trafalgar Rd, Hornby, ON L0P 1E0
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 5th
Toys R Us and Ontario Provincial Police have teamed up for Operation: Toy Drive in support of United Way Halton & Hamilton. The OPP mobile command centre will be at Toys R Us on Hamilton Mountain, where the community will try to fill the command centre with toys in support of UWHH’s Holiday program. Energetic volunteers will help collect the toys and add them into the cruiser and encourage shoppers to purchase a toy for a family in need.
** This opportunity is open to youth 13+ if accompanied with a parent, 18+ otherwise **
SHIFT ONE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, November 27th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: 970 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 5C5
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT TWO:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Thursday, November 27th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 971 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 5H7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT THREE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Friday, November 28th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: 972 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4V9
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT FOUR:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Friday, November 28th
- Time: 1:00 pM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 973 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 5H7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT FIVE:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Saturday, November 29th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: 974 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4V9
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT SIX:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Saturday, November 29th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 975 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 5H7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT SEVEN:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Sunday, November 30th
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: 976 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4V9
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
–
SHIFT EIGHT:
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS FULL
- 1-4 volunteers needed
- Date: Sunday, November 30th
- Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 977 Upper Wentworth Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 5H7
- Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 19th
Spread The Spirit On Social Media!
We LOVE to see your photos and Holiday Helping Hand content!
Be sure to tag us @UnitedWayHH with the hashtag #HolidayHelpingHand — we may even feature you in one of our stories and/or posts!