Spread Love this Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is all about love, but not just the romantic kind. It’s about kindness, compassion, and reminding people that they matter. While many of us celebrate with chocolates and flowers, countless Canadians are struggling with poverty, hunger, and homelessness.

Did you know that nearly 3.8million Canadians live below the poverty line? Food insecurity is also on the rise, affecting 18% of households as at 2022 (Canada.ca,2024). And for those experiencing homelessness, the challenges go beyond finding shelter, 38% report struggling with poor mental health, compared to 17% of the general population. These numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent real people in our communities who need support.

So, this Valentine’s Day, let’s do something different. Let’s spread love beyond our inner circles and lift up those who need it most. Here are a few simple, heartfelt ways to make a difference:

Send a Valentine’s Day Card to a Senior

Loneliness can be especially hard for seniors, but a simple card filled with warm wishes can bring immense joy. A few heartfelt words can make them feel seen, valued, and loved.

Volunteer Your Time

Love is about being there and your presence is wonderful gift to give. Whether it’s serving meals at a shelter, packing food hampers, or helping at a community center, your time can bring hope and warmth to someone’s heart.

Sponsor a Meal for Someone in Need

A warm meal is more than nourishment, it’s comfort, care, and a reminder that no one is forgotten. By sponsoring a meal, you give someone a reason to smile, knowing that kindness exists in the world.

Give to Your Local Food Bank

Food is love. It brings families together, comforts the soul, and fuels our dreams. This Valentine’s, consider donating to your local food bank so no one has to go to bed hungry. You can donate to our food bank located at 61, Nickel Street, Port Colborne.

Donate Closet Items and Wrap Someone in Warmth

Imagine facing the cold without a coat, or struggling to stay warm at night. Your gently used clothing could be the warmth someone desperately needs. Love is about sharing what we have, so that no one is left out in the cold.

Refer Job Seekers to Free Employment Services

Sometimes, the greatest act of love is believing in someone’s future. If you know someone searching for work, connect them with our free employment services team at PC Works, that can help them work towards a brighter tomorrow. 

This Valentine’s Day, let’s redefine love. Let’s make it bigger, bolder, and more compassionate. Because at the end of the day, love isn’t just something we say, it’s something we do.

How will you spread love this season? 💝