Together, We Can End Poverty, One Step at a Time

October 17 | International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Every October 17, we come together to recognize, International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - a global call to action to address the challenges faced by individuals and families living in poverty. At Women in Need Society (WINS), we see the daily realities of poverty in Calgary, and we believe that with community support, compassion, and opportunity, change is possible.

Understanding Poverty in Our Community

Poverty isn’t just about a lack of money, it’s about limited access to essentials like affordable housing, childcare, education, food, and meaningful work. For many Calgarians, especially women and families, poverty can mean choosing between paying rent or putting food on the table.

At WINS, we work every day to break this cycle through programs, our thriving social enterprise, and community partnerships that empower women and families to move toward stability and independence.

How WINS Supports Change

• Social Enterprise:  Every purchase at WINS supports our community programs and provides affordable essentials to those in need, all while championing sustainability. We’re proud to say that $0.88 of every dollar we receive goes directly into our programs and services, helping women and families build stability and thrive. Thrift Stores | WINS Calgary

• Community Support: Through our programs like the House to Home, we offer practical supports that give dignity and security to families in crisis – things like emergency food hampers, warm coats, and essential items like beds and tables that help make an apartment into a home. In 2024 alone, $1,3Million worth of basic needs were provided through House to Home. Community Resource Hubs | WINS Calgary

• Employment Services: At WINS, our  Warehouse and Retail Ready Programs, WINS helps women and families develop the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in today’s workforce. These programs provide hands-on training, job readiness support, and real workplace experience designed to break down barriers to employment, build confidence, and create pathways toward lasting stability and independence. Employment Services | WINS Calgary

  
  

How You Can Help

This October, as we recognize Poverty Awareness Month, we invite you to join us in taking meaningful action:

• Shop at WINS stores, funds are directed to vital community programs. During this poverty awareness campaign, you can also donate $2 to ‘’buy an apple’’ and give women and families access to food, baby essentials and hope.

• Donate your gently used items or make a monetary contribution.

• Volunteer your time to support our mission.

• Advocate for systemic change and raise awareness about the realities of poverty in Calgary.

Together, we can make a difference one person, one family, one community at a time.

Join Us

Learn more about how WINS is making an impact and how you can be part of the change at https://bit.ly/46SpNSd