A Sun Youth volunteer helps a mom pick up her Christmas basket. (Photo: Nicolas Carpentier)

Though winter can be dark and cold, Sun Youth does its best to bring light and warmth into the lives of Montreal’s neediest families.

In addition to serving 2,400 families every month, the food bank’s Holiday Hamper initiative ensures that nearly 5,000 families receive adequate resources to celebrate together during the holiday season—so needed during these times of lingering economic uncertainty.

Executive vice-president Sid Stevens encourages Montrealers: “We need people to give all year round … but at this particular time of year our donors can know that they are keeping families from making hard choices, allowing them to celebrate with food and gifts that they might otherwise go without. I’m always amazed by the ability of our donors to give. Our donors know that giving brings true light into their own lives as well.”

514-842-6822, sunyouthorg.com.