When you think of a Canadian winter, images of snow-covered streets, frozen lakes, and chilly winds instantly come to mind. While many of us prepare for the season with warm coats, cozy toques, mittens, and socks, not everyone has that same privilege. For thousands of people experiencing homelessness across Canada, winter is not just inconvenient, it’s life-threatening.
At Toques From the Heart, we believe that warmth is more than comfort; it’s a necessity. By exploring the numbers behind Canadian winters, we can better understand the hardships faced by vulnerable communities and why providing essentials like toques, mittens, and socks makes such a difference.
The Harsh Reality of Canadian Winters
Canadian winters are among the most severe in the world. In many provinces, temperatures regularly dip below -20°C, and wind chills can make it feel even colder. In cities like Winnipeg, Ottawa, and Edmonton, extreme cold warnings are common throughout the season. For those without shelter, exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and other serious health risks. We have made it our mission do donate to every single province and territory in the country and will continue to support Canadians wherever they need us.
According to the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness, an estimated 235,000 Canadians experience homelessness each year, with over 35,000 living without reliable shelter on any given night. When temperatures drop, this already vulnerable population faces unimaginable challenges simply trying to survive outdoors.
Why Warm Winter Gear Matters
Staying warm in freezing temperatures isn’t just about having a coat. The human body loses heat most quickly through the head, hands, and feet, which is why toques, mittens, and socks are absolutely essential.
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Toques help prevent significant heat loss and protect against frostbite on ears and scalp.
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Mittens keep fingers together, preserving more warmth than gloves.
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Thick socks not only provide comfort but also protect against frostbite, blisters, and painful cracking caused by cold exposure.
For people experiencing homelessness, these basic items can be the difference between enduring another night outside safely or suffering from cold-related injuries.
The Numbers Tell the Story
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Over 35,000 Canadians are homeless on any given night.
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Frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes when exposed to wind chills below -28°C.
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More than 70% of emergency shelter users report needing proper winter clothing during the coldest months.
These numbers highlight just how critical it is to provide reliable, high-quality winter gear to those who need it most.
How Toques From the Heart Helps
Our mission is simple: for every toque you purchase, we donate one to someone experiencing homelessness in Canada. With the addition of our Classic Mittens and Stay Warm Socks, we’re extending that mission to cover the areas where warmth is needed most. Every purchase directly contributes to protecting someone from the harsh Canadian winter.
Be Part of the Solution
When you choose Toques From the Heart, you’re not just buying winter gear, you’re giving the gift of warmth and safety to someone who desperately needs it. Together, we can make Canadian winters a little more bearable for everyone.
Shop our toques, mittens, and socks today and help fight winter hardships one purchase at a time.