The Holiday Hope Tote Campaign is Back!
The Alex is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Holiday Hope Tote campaign, now with the support of a vital new partner: SkipTheDepot, Alberta’s leading recycling app. This year, SkipTheDepot will make donating critical care supplies more convenient than ever, enabling Calgarians to help individuals and families in need through simple at-home contributions.
About the Totes
The Holiday Hope Totes campaign brings warmth and compassion to Calgary’s most vulnerable during the holiday season. Each tote is filled with necessary essentials like hygiene products, winter accessories, and grocery gift cards—often the only gifts these individuals receive. Since 2020, over 4500 totes have been distributed, making a huge impact in our community.
For many recipients, the Hope Tote serves as a powerful reminder of the kindness within the community. Youth clients express deep gratitude, with one noting, “I don’t usually receive Christmas gifts, so this is really special.” Housing staff see firsthand the joy these totes bring, observing the excitement as clients open their thoughtfully prepared gifts. Beyond meeting basic needs, the campaign fosters a sense of connection and care, reminding recipients they are valued during a time when it matters most.
About the Totes
The Holiday Hope Totes campaign brings warmth and compassion to Calgary’s most vulnerable during the holiday season. Each tote is filled with necessary essentials like hygiene products, winter accessories, and grocery gift cards—often the only gifts these individuals receive. Since 2020, over 4500 totes have been distributed, making a huge impact in our community.
For many recipients, the Hope Tote serves as a powerful reminder of the kindness within the community. Youth clients express deep gratitude, with one noting, “I don’t usually receive Christmas gifts, so this is really special.” Housing staff see firsthand the joy these totes bring, observing the excitement as clients open their thoughtfully prepared gifts. Beyond meeting basic needs, the campaign fosters a sense of connection and care, reminding recipients they are valued during a time when it matters most.
How to participate
There are many ways to spread holiday cheer through Hope Totes:
- Host a collection drive: gather hygiene items, winter accessories, and snacks, then donate them to The Alex.
- Fill a tote as a team: workplaces, schools, and groups can pool resources to assemble complete totes.
- Monetary donations: make a direct donation so The Alex can purchase gifts cards directly for totes.
- Spread the word: share the campaign with friends, family, or coworkers to inspire even more giving.
Needed Contributions:
- $15 Gift Cards: Sobeys, Superstore, Co-op, Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart, Dollarama (no fast-food gift cards)
- Travel-Size Hygiene Supplies: Lip balm, hand lotion, toothbrush, toothpaste, tissue packs
- Winter Accessories: Gloves, toques, socks, hand/foot warmer packs (adult size)
- Non-Perishable Snacks: Hot chocolate packs, candy canes, gum, granola bars
Please Note: Contributions with blades, mouthwash, or hand sanitizer cannot be accepted.
“Each year, contributing to The Alex’s Hope Totes campaign is a meaningful way for us to support our community in a hands-on and personal way. Since 2021, we’ve assembled and donated 200 totes annually, filled with hygiene products, winter essentials, gift cards, and other items chosen with care. It’s a simple act, but one we hope offers seasonal joy and comfort to those going through challenging times – and it’s a tradition we’re honoured to uphold.”
– Spartan Controls
Prefer to Drop Off Your Donations in Person?
You can also drop off contributions by contacting Bronwyn Roth, Community Engagement Coordinator, at 403-651-9241 or broth@thealex.ca
Thank You for Your Generosity! Your contributions will make an incredible difference this holiday season! Thank you for helping spread hope, warmth, and kindness to those who need it most.