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Gifts in Kind

We receive over $2.5 million worth of non-monetary donations annually. This includes 45,000 hours of volunteer labour as well as donations of food, clothing, services and household items. Gifts-in-kind can be used in many of our programs and are distributed according to need, unless otherwise designated by the donor. Also, please check our regular newsletter for specific items required.

We gratefully receive donations of food that has been prepared in a government inspected facility. The Public Health Department and House of Friendship work hard to keep food safe for our participants. Due to the risk of botulism, Public Health regulations no longer allow us to accept home canned products that have not been prepared in a government inspected facility. Thanks to all who have done canning for us in the past. It has been greatly appreciated. We are still able to accept fresh garden produce and approved frozen items. Government inspected meat is also always welcome. Thank you for your understanding. If you have questions about what food donations are acceptable please contact our Food Services Coordinator Sandra Wall at 519-742-8327.

Our Charles Street Men's Hostel at 63 Charles St., E., Kitchener is open to receive these items seven days a week. We try to be good stewards of all donations and will refer you to other agencies if we are unable to use items that you wish to donate.

For more information on gifts-in-kind please call 519-742-8327 or email Tony Bender at tonyb@houseoffriendship.org.