Photos: Cindy Stewart (centre) from Old Navy drops off gift bag donations filled with holiday goodies for GEF housing clients.

The holiday season is a time for kindness, connection, and community. This year, thanks to a warm-hearted donation from Old Navy, we had the chance to bring some extra joy to seniors in our city as well as those living in our communities.

In November, Old Navy staff from across Edmonton worked together to assemble 310 holiday gift bags, each filled with something cozy, something fun, something tasty, and something useful. These thoughtful gifts aimed to brighten the days of our residents and housing applicants — and they truly did!

Housing Team Steps in as Santa’s Helpers

The first 100 gift bags were given to the Housing Team who quickly stepped into their holiday roles as Santa’s helpers. During housing interviews in December, staff surprised applicants with these gifts, offering some much-needed cheer during a challenging time.

With over 1,200 seniors currently on our waitlist for housing, and with our buildings at nearly full capacity, Old Navy’s gifts provided support and compassion to seniors waiting for a place to call home.

A Small Gift, A Big Impact

The reactions from applicants were heartwarming. Many shared how a simple gift turned their day around, bringing a bit of light and joy when they needed it most.


“My last interview yesterday was surprised by the gift bag. He was so thankful — like a kid opening presents!”

The remainder of the gift bags were delivered to thankful residents and tenants at various GEF communities over the holiday season.

Old Navy team delivers gift bags to happy residents and tenants.

Thank You, Old Navy!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Old Navy and to our dedicated GEF staff for helping make this holiday season brighter for our community. Your generosity through this campaign truly warmed hearts — along with heads, hands and toes!

Join Us in Spreading Cheer All Year Round

As we continue to support seniors in our communities, we invite you to be a part of spreading happiness and cheer throughout 2025. Click here to learn more about how you can help us make a difference.

Together, we can brighten someone’s day, warm their heart, and remind them of hopeful days ahead.