Gift of Xmas: 15 Years Spreading Generosity and Hope

When people open their hearts to help, even from a distance, something special happens. Generosity becomes hope and brightens the Christmas of those who need it most.

It was from this spirit that the Gift of Xmas campaign was born 15 years ago, created by etc&tal to touch lives and spread love where it matters most.

In the early years, before the pandemic, the campaign came to life in the streets. Donation boxes were placed in partner businesses and, at the end of the campaign, our team walked alongside Santa, Mrs. Claus and their helpers to collect the donated gifts and deliver them to CityKidz. When children saw Santa, they simply couldn’t contain their excitement. They ran toward us, laughing, waving and turning that moment into something truly unforgettable. And what touched us most was seeing adults moved as well, reliving memories or feeling the magic of Christmas return for a moment.

Along the way, we always carried extra toys. When we met children on the street, we gifted them right there. Their spontaneous smiles created memories that still remain preserved in photos, videos and in the heart of etc&tal.

When the pandemic arrived, everything changed.

The campaign reinvented itself and began receiving donations exclusively through e-transfer. To our surprise, generosity grew even stronger. Even without in-person gatherings, people continued to open their hearts. Love simply found another way.

Since then, the campaign has continued in a fully virtual format. All funds collected are directed, before Christmas, to CityKidz in Hamilton, one of Canada’s most inspiring social organizations. CityKidz does much more than deliver toys. It delivers hope all year long, visiting vulnerable families, offering emotional support, creating opportunities and developing programs that strengthen self-esteem and build a brighter future for these children.

During the Christmas season, the impact becomes even greater. Thousands of children receive not only a gift, but the certainty that they are seen, remembered and loved.

And now we reach the most important part. Our team invites you to help transform a child’s Christmas.

Starting at $5, it is already possible to make a meaningful difference.

A small amount for some, life-changing for those who receive it.

Donations can be sent via e-transfer to isaetcetal@gmail.com.

Join us. Share hope. Help write another beautiful chapter in these 15 years.