Chris Dopp & Leslie Pocklington
Collingwood, ON

Chris Dopp and Leslie Pocklington of Collingwood, Ontario, have been providing turkeys and holiday meals to those in need for over two decades. Their unwavering generosity has had a profound impact on their community, ensuring that less fortunate residents can enjoy a festive meal at Christmas. With more than 20 years of commitment to this cause, Chris and Leslie have brought Christmas cheer to countless families.

In partnership with the Georgian Bay Club Monday Group, Chris and Leslie lead this annual initiative, making it possible year after year. Their selfless dedication continues to light up the holiday season for many in the community.

Mike Baatz
Montcalm, QC

Since 2016, Mike Baatz and his team of volunteers have been providing monthly luncheons for seniors in Montcalm and the surrounding area.

As the chef, Mike takes charge of planning and preparing a full meal including soup, main course, dessert, and beverages for up to 80 seniors. For the holidays he plans a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings and collects donations for gift card raffles, adding an extra touch of joy to the seniors.

Mike’s commitment to his community has made these luncheons a beloved tradition, spreading both nourishment and holiday cheer to more Canadians each year.

Jason Flood & Thomas Van Der Krogt
Winnipeg, MB

Jason Flood, Thomas Van Der Krogt, and their dedicated team of volunteers at 1JustCity in Winnipeg work tirelessly to prepare up to 500 meals a day for those in need. They serve individuals who require extra support, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone can feel seen and valued.

The meals they prepare are entirely donated, and each day the team makes do with available ingredients, often getting creative to ensure every meal is hot, nutritious, and satisfying. Every holiday season, Jason, Thomas, and their team provide a traditional turkey meal for hundreds of guests, along with take-home meals, allowing everyone to enjoy a festive feast.

Their dedication and commitment to the community makes them true holiday heroes.

Robert Belley
Saskatoon, SK

Robert Belley is a founding member of the Sage Clan, a dedicated volunteer group in Saskatoon that works diligently to support the homeless in their community through various initiatives, ensuring everyone has a warm turkey meal during the holidays. Under Robert's leadership, volunteers devote their time to sorting and collecting donations, preparing soups, and making sandwiches for distribution during patrols. The group also receives support from local businesses, which contribute donations and serve as drop-off points.

Through their ongoing efforts, the Sage Clan makes a tangible difference in the lives of many, providing essential support such as warm meals and winter gear to those in need.

Carrie Bartsch
Grande Prairie, AB

Carrie Bartsch is the Executive Director of the Cairn Society, a non-profit organization in Grande Prairie supporting individuals below the Core Needs Income Level. Through generous donations, the Cairn Society provides essential services that offer a "hand up" to those in need, helping them overcome challenges and improve their quality of life, especially during the holidays, which can be a challenging time for some.

Carrie’s tireless commitment and selfless contributions have made her an inspiring leader. Her dedication not only provides vital assistance to individuals but also encourages others to get involved, strengthening the community’s spirit of compassion and collaboration.

Ed Murray
Cranbrook, BC

Ed Murray of Cranbrook, B.C. has organized an annual turkey dinner for seniors in the community for many years. In partnership with the local Rotary Club, volunteers, food sponsors, and a local chef, Ed helps serve 450 meals at the Columbo Center. Tickets for the event are sold for $5, with all proceeds benefiting charity.

The 2024 dinner marks the 41st annual event, which was originally started by George Georgopoulos, a long-time member of the Cranbrook Rotary Club who passed away in 2020. Ed continues George's legacy of giving back to the community, ensuring that seniors can enjoy a festive and fulfilling meal each holiday season.

The Turkey Club, Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank
Halifax, NS

For over 25 years, the Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank has been an essential resource for families in need, with its Christmas Hamper program standing out as one of its most impactful initiatives. Supported by the Turkey Club and the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, the program provides crucial food items, including turkeys, to over 1,000 families each year.

Parker Street’s mission is focused on alleviating poverty and offering support to those facing financial challenges. The Christmas Hamper program goes beyond providing food, it restores dignity, warmth, and a sense of community. By ensuring families have the ingredients for a festive holiday meal, Parker Street helps brighten the season for those who might otherwise struggle.

Deborah McMillen & Friends
Parker's Cove, NS

Two years ago, in their rural community on the shores of the Bay of Fundy, Deborah and her group of volunteers recognized that many seniors were struggling to access stores and services. They began by preparing hot meals for just six people, but the demand quickly grew.

In response to this increasing need, they opened Belle’s Blessing Community Pantry in September 2022. The pantry, restocked 14 times per season, provides food, personal hygiene items, and fresh produce, all funded by donations or by their own limited resources. In addition, they continue to prepare hot meals, often featuring turkey, to support those facing difficult circumstances, ensuring that everyone in the community has company and a delicious meal over the holidays.