P.E.I. Family Expands Christmas Stocking Drive for the Unhoused

A family in Prince Edward Island is upholding a Christmas tradition of supporting the unhoused, even as many households reduce their holiday spending. For the past seven years, Andrea Donaldson and her family have been dedicated to filling stockings with essential items for those without stable housing. This initiative is deeply personal for Donaldson, who experienced periods of homelessness between the ages of 17 and 30.

While living in Vancouver over a decade ago, Donaldson received a stocking from a stranger on Hastings Street. “That always stuck with me,” she recalls. “It made me feel loved and unforgotten, and it gave me a little bit of Christmas hope.” Now a mother of seven, with five children living at home, Donaldson guides her children in organizing the annual stocking drive, teaching them the importance of empathy as they sort supplies in their living room.

“This teaches them to love other people and to be humble,” she explains. Her son, Tre Gordier, 9, adds a heartfelt note, stating, “Because she’s my prettiest mama.” Despite the financial challenges posed by rising grocery costs, Donaldson remains committed to her mission. This year, she spoke with her children about the need to adjust their expectations for Christmas, explaining that there would be fewer gifts under the tree.

“I’ve always raised them to think Christmas is about who’s with you, not what’s on display,” she emphasizes. This year’s drive marks a significant expansion; starting with fewer than 20 stockings in its inaugural year, the family is on track to distribute at least 50 stockings this season. Contributions have come not only from individuals but also, for the first time, from local businesses and organizations.

One such organization is The Village Summerside, a homelessness outreach group that donated a substantial bin of supplies. Elysha Whitlock, the executive director of the non-profit, expressed appreciation for community involvement, stating, “We absolutely love seeing other people within the community step forward and take that initiative to help those that are living unhoused.” Whitlock highlighted the dangers of winter for those sleeping outside, noting an increase in frostbite cases and rapid health declines among individuals experiencing homelessness.

The stockings are filled with essential items, including hand warmers, hats, gloves, hygiene products, and treats. This year, the family has also included a few donated blankets. The items will be distributed in Montague and Charlottetown during the Christmas season, with any remaining supplies delivered to homes across the island.

Donaldson hopes the project will serve as a reminder for the community to remain compassionate during the holiday season. “They come from many different walks of life,” she states. “We shouldn’t place judgment on them — just keep showing compassion and love. That actually means more than anybody will ever know.”