...is closer than you think.
The “New Face of Poverty” reveals the heartbreaking reality that poverty in Calgary now touches people you know—neighbors who need help but are too shy to ask, friends who are quietly skipping social gatherings, and parents who, instead of enjoying retirement, are working two jobs just to make ends meet. No longer confined to homelessness or those who can't afford three meals a day, poverty now impacts families, working professionals, and seniors—people who once felt secure. Women In Need Society (WINS) is here to support Calgarians by providing essential services like basic needs, emotional support, and employment training, offering hope and a path forward for those facing this evolving reality.
Together, we can make a difference and help those affected rebuild their lives.
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WINS have seen more people come to our doors who once had stability and are now struggling to meet their basic needs. This is no longer about homelessness alone; poverty is affecting everyday Calgarians. What do we mean by this? Check out Calgary Foundation's Quality of Life 2024 Report.
How YOU can help
You have the power to make a difference, even through small but impactful actions. Right now, as the demand for support continues to rise, donations and financial contributions are at an all-time low. This growing gap between the increasing need and shrinking resources puts immense pressure on our ability to provide essential services. But you can help bridge this gap. By supporting organizations like WINS, you enable us to continue offering essential programs and services for free that help people with basic needs, emotional support, and employment training. Your actions matter!
From October 7 to 19, when you shop at any of our 8 thrift store locations, including our new Glenbrook and Manchester stores, you can choose to direct your purchase toward supporting basic needs, emotional support, or employment training. You can also add a cash donation to your purchase at checkout, ensuring your contribution directly impacts those who need it most.
You can make a cash donation with your purchase in our Thrift Stores or online through the donation box below. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps provide critical resources to women and families. Choose to direct your donation toward basic needs, emotional support, or employment training.
Make a donation
How WINS helps
Women In Need Society (WINS) provides vital support to women and families in Calgary by connecting them with resources to thrive. Wiithin WINS, we offer FREE Community Support Programs and Services which are being funded by our WINS Stores and through donations from Calgarians like you.
When you go thrifting to any of our 8 WINS Store Locations between October 7 (Monday) to 19 (Saturday), you may direct your purchase to any of these causes that are dear to you.
External Resources for Those in Need
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of poverty, there are several organizations in Calgary ready to provide support just like us. These resources offer help with food security, housing, mental health, and more to assist individuals and families during challenging times.
October 17 is the International Day for the
Eradication of Poverty
October 17, recognized as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the global fight to end poverty and social exclusion. Established by the United Nations, this day highlights the need to address the structural inequalities that contribute to poverty worldwide and emphasizes the dignity, rights, and capabilities of individuals experiencing poverty. It is a call for solidarity with those affected and a reminder that eradicating poverty is essential to achieving a more just and sustainable world.
WEAR RED.
You are highly encouraged to wear red on October 17, Thursday, not just to show support, but to also make a statement that we, Calgarians, believe in building a city where everyone has the chance to thrive. The color red is a powerful symbol in the fight against poverty. It represents urgency, action, and the shared commitment to building a fair, inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity.
