United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Holiday Helping Hand provides $220,000 in relief to more than 5,000 people

By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

United Way Halton & Hamilton’s Holiday Helping Hand program has delivered approximately $220,000 in direct financial relief this holiday season, supporting more than 5,000 individuals through 27 community partner agencies across Halton and Hamilton. The amount represents a $70,000 increase over last year, reflecting both rising community need and the response from donors, volunteers, and partners.

Brad Park, president and CEO of United Way Halton & Hamilton, said the initiative exists to help families who face additional pressures during the holiday season. “The holidays can place additional strain on families who are already doing everything they can to get by,” Park said. “Holiday Helping Hand exists because our community recognizes that reality and chooses to respond with care. It’s neighbours helping neighbours at a time when that support matters most.”

The program was created to address the increasing demand on local agencies during the holidays while ensuring families receive support in ways that preserve their dignity. Park noted that Holiday Helping Hand helps relieve pressure on frontline agencies while providing assistance that respects individual circumstances.

Community members contribute to the program by volunteering at United Way-supported agencies, sponsoring families, or donating essential items such as grocery gift cards, toys, hygiene supplies, bedding, and clothing.

This year, the program delivered tangible support including 1,022 essential kits, 533 stocking stuffers valued at $2,665, and $73,440 worth of toys benefiting approximately 2,448 people. A total of 217 families, representing 706 people, were served, with 100 per cent of registered families receiving support, including families added just one week before registration closed. Volunteers contributed across 28 “Days of Caring” shifts at partner agencies and nine kit drive opportunities, totaling 327 volunteers.

The program is intentionally designed with dignity at its centre. Gifts are delivered unwrapped and ahead of the holidays, allowing families to plan, prepare, and celebrate in ways that reduce stress while maintaining choice and privacy. “Support should never come at the expense of dignity,” Park said. “This program is intentionally designed to respect people’s autonomy and allow families to experience the holidays on their own terms.”

Park also credited United Way staff for their role in the initiative’s success. “I am incredibly proud of our staff, volunteers, and partners. This is a lean but mighty community response. It shows what’s possible when compassion, coordination, and commitment come together,” he said.

United Way Halton & Hamilton noted that there is still time for community members to provide support this holiday season. Donations can be made online to continue helping vulnerable neighbours.