Community Artist Spreads Kindness Amid Canada Post Strike

Kiki Klassen, the founder of the Lucky Duck Mail Club, is continuing to foster community spirit and kindness during the current Canada Post strike. Klassen originally launched her initiative shortly before the previous strike in 2022, dedicating approximately five hours to personally deliver envelopes throughout her community in St. Catharines, Ontario.

Her efforts have gained international attention, with nearly 1,000 subscribers from over 30 countries now receiving monthly mailings that include an original print, an inspirational quote, and messages of affirmation. Unlike last year, Klassen has decided not to hand-deliver her letters during this strike.

“Unfortunately, I am holding on to it this time,” she stated. “I know that mail will return eventually, and so I just issued a little notice to all my followers and my mail club members that we’re just gonna have to wait this time.”

Challenges of the Postal Dispute

The Canada Post strike began recently after the federal government announced plans to overhaul the Crown corporation, including potential cuts to home delivery services. In response, Canada Post presented a new offer, which is currently under review by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW). The corporation has assured that all mail and parcels will be delivered once operations resume.

Despite the inconvenience, Klassen expressed her unwavering support for the postal workers. Her connection to the cause is deeply personal: her late mother was a dedicated unionized Canada Post worker. “She was one of the people that other employees could go to with their concerns,” she recalled. “It was always really cool to see her stand up for her rights and for other people.”

Klassen fondly remembers accompanying her mother on picket lines, where they would bring coffee and snacks to striking workers as a gesture of solidarity. “It’s none of their fault. This is out of everybody’s control, and the best thing we can do is just keep the negative comments to a minimum,” she noted.

Impact on Small Businesses

The ongoing strike has had a noticeable impact on small businesses, including the Lucky Duck Mail Club. Klassen has observed a decline in subscriber numbers as a direct result of the disruption. “I make art from my heart and because I love it, so the money is not a huge issue for me,” she explained. “I am devastated to not be able to share these things that bring people joy.”

The essence of her mailings—delivering joy through “happy mail”—is something she values deeply. “Not being able to give that to people… it’s just a really big bummer.”

Despite the challenges, Klassen remains committed to the core message of her mail club: patience, positivity, and hope. “So, just trying to keep the energy high and the kindness at an even higher rate,” she concluded.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on October 4, 2025.