The issue of homelessness in Canada has become a growing crisis since we started our company back in 2019. Rising housing costs, inflation, the long-term impacts of the pandemic, and the lack of affordable units have pushed more Canadians into unstable living situations. But while the problem has grown, so has an incredible movement of community action across the country. Canadians are stepping up, our nonprofit partners, shelters, volunteers, neighbours, and local businesses are working together to support those who need it most.
Here’s how communities across Canada are responding with compassion, innovation, and resilience.
A Nationwide Increase in Support Services
As homelessness has risen, shelters and community organizations have expanded their programs to meet the growing need. Many have widened their outreach efforts, added emergency beds, launched mobile services, or introduced transitional housing programs. These frontline organizations aren’t just offering a place to sleep, they are providing mental health support, addiction recovery, employment programs, and long-term housing solutions.
From Vancouver to Toronto to Halifax, these groups are vital lifelines for individuals and families struggling to get back on their feet.
Grassroots Efforts Are Growing Stronger
One of the most inspiring trends since we started Toques From The Heart is the noticeable rise in grassroots, community-driven support. Canadians have rallied behind local causes, organizing winter clothing drives, fundraising campaigns, community meals, and volunteer-led outreach initiatives.
Neighbourhood groups, high schools, faith communities, and local clubs have played a major role in filling the gaps when demand rises faster than funding. These actions highlight a powerful reality: when communities unite, change becomes possible, even during a crisis.
Businesses Are Becoming Part of the Solution
More Canadian companies are recognizing the need to give back locally. Social enterprises and purpose-driven brands have become an important source of support for shelters and community programs.
We also work with so many great businesses to make custom merchandise for their employees and give back essential goods that provide reliable help year after year. This shift shows how combining commerce with compassion can drive real, measurable impact.
Innovation and Collaboration Are Creating Hope
Cities and nonprofits have been developing new approaches to address homelessness more effectively. Collaborations between housing providers, healthcare teams, shelters, and outreach workers have improved access to resources and made support more coordinated.
New models such as tiny-home communities, modular housing, and supportive housing projects show promise in breaking the cycle of homelessness and helping people rebuild stable, fulfilling lives. We have seen first hand
How Toques From the Heart Helps
At Toques From the Heart, we’re proud to be part of the community response. As the issue of homelessness has grown, so has our commitment. For every toque, pair of mittens or socks purchased, we donate a brand-new toque to someone in need through our national network of more than 100 giving partners.
Our mission is simple: warm Canadians, support Canadian communities, and show compassion through action.
By keeping our toque production in Montreal and our donations within Canada, every purchase helps strengthen the very communities facing the crisis firsthand.
Together, we can support meaningful change, one purchase and one kind act at a time.