Jewish Women International of Canada has taken a leadership role in the community since its inception in 1927. JWIC takes great pride in identifying important needs in our communities and taking action that enriches so many lives.

Shelter Drives
In December 2005, JWIC received a critical call from a Toronto area women's shelter. They were in desparate need of 'move-out' kits - kits that provided a woman with the basic necessities that she needed to set up a home when she left the shelter. Many of these women had fled abusive homes with only the clothes on their back or a few things in a green garbage bag. JWIC galvanized many community members to fill this need and within 3 short weeks gathered enough to fill 40 kits. Each kit contained a set of dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, mixing bowls, kitchen utensils, a kettle, a toaster oven, kitchen towels, linens, pillows, blankets, towels, cleaning products etc etc - enough to allow them to set up a new home for themselves and their children. Imagine their gratitude! Imagine the satisfaction of the donors!

As a result of this incredible outpouring of support, JWIC has been meeting with shelters to determine their needs. Future shelter drives will collect women's essentials - all the things that a woman needs to be well groomed and feel good about her appearance - all the things that we take for granted;winter coats and boots for women and children; books, videos, cd's and dvd's; suitcases/duffel bags.

Different shelters in communities across Canada will be the recipients of the drives.

For more information or to get involved in this very worthwhile service, call JWIC at 416-630-9313 or toll free at 1-866-333-5942 or e-mail info@jwicanada.com

Street Feet
When we think of the homeless, we don’t often think of their need for warm, dry socks. JWIC collects thousands of pairs of socks annually for the homeless and donates them through various agencies across Canada.

Dolls for Democracy
This is an innovative program designed to teach elementary school children about diversity and differences. Artist produced replicas of famous persons who have made a difference despite their ‘difference’ are used by volunteers in the schools.

Mountains of Mittens
Recognizing that Canadian winters require warm clothing and protection, JWIC has an army of volunteers who knit thousands of pairs of mittens, hats and scarves annually. These lovingly knitted items are then donated to inner city schools across Canada. Donations of wool and knitters are always welcome. Wool and patterns are available.

Are you a knitter? Call JWIC toll free 1-866-333-5942 to volunteer as a knitter.