🎁 Winnipeg Christmas Cheer Board Now Accepting Hamper Applications

Hey Winnipeg — here’s something worth sharing. The Christmas Cheer Board has officially opened up hamper applications for 2025, and that means families across the city can start signing up for a little extra help this holiday season.

This long-standing local program has been part of the city’s holiday spirit for over 100 years, helping thousands of families enjoy a proper Christmas dinner and gifts for the kids. Last year alone, they handed out more than 21,000 hampers, and with prices being what they are these days, the need will likely be just as big this year.

Who can apply

If you’re living in Winnipeg (or nearby) and money’s tight, this program is for you.

• It’s open to anyone meeting low-income criteria — no matter your background or beliefs.
• Applications must be made by the individual or family themselves — no referrals.

While there isn’t an exact dollar figure published, the program is meant for families living below the poverty line or experiencing financial hardship.

How to apply

Applications are taken by phone only — no online forms. Have this information ready before calling:

• Manitoba Health Card numbers for adults in the household (if not on Income Assistance).
• Or a case number if on Income Assistance or Disability.

You can choose pickup or delivery, depending on what works best. Hampers are either picked up at the Cheer Board warehouse or delivered by volunteer drivers in early to mid-December. If delivery doesn’t work out, pickup will be the backup option.

Phone Numbers & Hours of Operation

• Income Assistance & Persons with Disabilities applicants: Call 204-948-2022
  Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Low-Income, Pensioners, Students, and New Canadians: Call 204-989-5683
  November Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
  December Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

The lines can get really busy, so it’s best to call early in the day and have all your info ready.

Deadlines & Tips

• Application lines open Monday, November 4, 2025.
• Later in December, the delivery option might close — pickup only.
• Be patient when calling — the lines are always packed at the start.

What’s in the hamper

• Non-perishable groceries like canned goods, rice, and pasta.
• A toy or gift for each child aged 0–14.
• Either pickup or delivery, depending on timing and availability.

Why this matters

Let’s face it — the holidays can be tough when money’s tight. The Christmas Cheer Board helps make sure families can still sit down to a good meal and the kids have something special to unwrap. There’s no shame in asking for help; that’s exactly why this program exists.

Even if you’re not sure you qualify, it’s worth checking. The Cheer Board has always kept its criteria flexible to reach as many people as possible. The only thing they ask is that folks don’t double up with another hamper program, so everyone gets a fair shot.

Ways to help out

• Donate food or new toys — peanut butter, canned fish, pasta, and games for older kids are always in demand.
• Volunteer to help pack or deliver hampers.
• Or sponsor a family through the Feed-a-Family program to make someone’s holiday a little brighter.

🎄 Quick Checklist

• ✅ Live in Winnipeg and meet the low-income criteria
• ✅ Phone lines open Nov 4, 2025 — mark it down
• ✅ Decide between pickup or delivery
• ✅ Have Health Card or case numbers ready
• ✅ Call early — lines get busy fast

It’s nice to see this long-time Winnipeg tradition still going strong, spreading kindness one hamper at a time. If you or someone you know could use some help this Christmas, it’s worth making that call. And if you’re in a position to lend a hand instead, that’s just as special — that’s what makes this city feel like home during the holidays.