Aside from getting a much needed break and spending time with our loved ones, the holiday season also presents an opportunity to spread kindness in the community.
If you’re looking for ways on how to give back, here are some donation drives happening in Riverside, organized by or in partnership with members of our BIA:
Winter Clothing Drive for the Waterfront Centre Clothing Bank
Location: Common Sort (760 Queen St E)
Common Sort – gathering donations for the Waterfront Centre Clothing Bank. Suggested items include winter coats, gloves, boots, mittens, hand warmers, large/XL sweaters & pants, socks, sweatpants, hoodies, bras and leggings. Drop off items during business hours. Donations will be accepted throughout the winter season at the Riverside Common Sort location.
Wish List for Nellie’s Shelter Families
Location: Oma Chiropractic & Wellness (1 Munro St)
This season, Oma Chiropractic is partnering with Nellie’s Shelter again to support Nellie’s families. There are two simple ways to give: 1) Choose a tag from their Gift Giving Tree at Oma clinic and bring in the listed item OR 2) Drop a small donation in their collection jar during your visit. All contributions go directly toward helping women and children at Nellie’s feel supported and cared for this holiday season.
Warm Up the Community, Get a Discounted Beer
Location: Eastbound Brewing Co. (700 Queen St E)
Bring new or gently used winter clothing — coats, hats, gloves, sweaters, anything that can help someone through the cold — to Eastbound and they’ll thank you with $1 off a beer during your visit. Every cozy layer donated makes a real impact, and Eastbound is grateful to share a pint with you while supporting our neighbours. Cheers to helping out this season!
Before we wrap up the blog, we’d like to give a shoutout to all the generous sponsors of the 2025 Riverside Antler Breakfast. This year’s fundraiser would not be possible without your overwhelming support!
Speaking of Riverside Antler Breakfast… If you were not able to make it, you can still show your support for Fontbonne Ministries at Mustard Seed and the Ralph Thornton Community Centre through the donation pages hyperlinked. They’re open year-round too so you can access the links anytime!
To stay updated on what’s new and happening in Riverside, make sure to check @riverside_bia on Instagram and the Riverside Blog regularly!