Other Projects

Christmas Relief

Each Christmas, Spirit Alive provides relief in the form of children’s toys and clothing.  New Life Neighbourhood Association and the Aids Committee of the Region of Durham provide names of children in need and between 200 and 250 children are provided for each year.

Spirit Alive also provides Christmas relief for men associated with the Outreach program of Cornerstone Community Association.  In 2016, thirty men received brand new shirts and  an assortment of smaller gifts including gift cards, chocolates, socks, etc.  Plans are underway for the 2017 season.

Shelter, Clothing, and Food Needs

Spirit Alive maintains a storage unit and accepts used furniture and household items for distribution as needs present themselves.  Requests are presented from various sources, including the Outreach Program of Cornerstone Community Association and individuals with direct knowledge of such needs.

Spirit Alive has responded to requests for help with small house renovations, offering both labour and materials.

Requests for emergency rent assistance, utility relief, clothing, and food assistance are examined individually and preference is given to individuals demonstrating  hardship based on particular, temporary circumstances, such as health concerns, job loss, etc.

Tim Horton gift cards in the amount of $5 each are distributed in the downtown area to people experiencing difficulty.

Coffee, Sandwiches and Community

An ongoing (year round) early-morning weekly distribution of coffee and breakfast sandwiches is provided in downtown Oshawa.  Between 10 and 20 marginalized people gather for sustenance and conversation.

Refugee Relief

The Syrian refugee crisis has inspired Spirit Alive to make a major financial contribution to the sponsorship of a Syrian family of four, located in Peterborough, Ontario.  The family’s year of financial support has ended and they are now actively seeking employment and education opportunities.