December 22, 2025
As we look forward to 2026, we want to take a few moments to reflect and honour the generosity that surrounds the holiday season. Several offices participated in fundraisers, provided donations and came together to help support our communities during what can be, a stressful time of year for some.
TORONTO
In the Greater Toronto Area, the team contributed 50 toys to the Holland Bloorview Rehabilitation Toy Drive, supporting the Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation. Holland Bloorview is Canada’s largest children’s rehabilitation hospital—an innovative, research-driven centre that partners with children, youth, and families to deliver personalized care and champion a world of possibility for kids with disabilities.
HALIFAX
In Halifax, the Atlantic team supported United Way Halifax, an organization dedicated to reducing poverty and building stronger, more inclusive communities. Funds were raised through a catered staff lunch, helping United Way invest in programs that provide food security, housing stability, and mental health support. Additionally, staff donated essential items for Adsum House, a shelter that offers emergency housing and long-term support for women, gender-diverse individuals, and families experiencing homelessness. Adsum provides safe spaces and programs that help clients transition from crisis to independence.
OTTAWA
The Ottawa office supported the Odawa Native Friendship Centre through its Angel Tree Campaign, which provides Christmas gifts to hundreds of local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis families in need. To make a meaningful impact, the team organized a staff raffle, a holiday drive to collect food, gifts, and essentials, and an online silent auction featuring generous contributions from clients. Together, they raised $2,411, helping bring joy to families during the holiday season.
WINNIPEG
In Winnipeg, the team embraced the season of giving through a series of impactful initiatives. A successful fundraising campaign for United Way featured a kickoff lunch, a Winnipeg Jets ticket draw, and a game of chance, all supporting programs that strengthen communities across Manitoba. Staff also toured the Women’s Resource Centre to see firsthand how donations make a difference. Beyond fundraising, the team collected gently used business attire for Dress for Success, helping women and transgender individuals enter or re-enter the workforce with confidence. Volunteers assembled furniture for Wahbung Abinoonjiiag transitional housing, and gently used outerwear and boots were donated to Koats for Kids, ensuring warmth for families in need. With corporate support and staff contributions, $800 worth of personal care items were provided to North Star Lodge, an Indigenous women’s healing centre. Finally, food and gifts were gathered for five families through the Christmas Cheer Board, including a special Gill Giles Memorial Hamper in honour of our coleague Gill, who championed this tradition for many years.
As we take the time to reflect on these positive causes, we are proud of our A49 employees for their collective efforts to help local families and communities in need during the busy holiday months. We look forward to helping more communities in 2026. Happy Holidays!