Veith House in Halifax’s North End has delivered community support for half a century. With the holidays coming up fast, the local non-profit is holding its annual support drive to aid families throughout one of the most financially straining times of the year.
Donations made to the Happy Holidays campaign go directly to families in need by way of gift cards—spanning from $100 to $300 each—to help them shop for their children this holiday season. Last year, the fundraiser raised $32,000 and helped over 300 families.
A large part of this fundraiser is the annual Hydrostone Tree Lighting, bringing the North End together for a festive celebration. Local schools contribute music while free treats are handed out to attendees. Santa Claus has also been known to make an appearance. This year, it takes place on Friday, Dec. 5.
Veith House also accepts donations of gift cards, toiletries, bus tickets and non-perishable food items, all of which go to help families year-round. They also have sponsorship options for organizations and businesses.
The Veith House has a legacy of delivering non-profit programming to the North End. Its weekly hot meal service allows guests to stop by for food, while its outdoor Community Pantry and Fridge provide an anonymous option for folks to get the food they need. Its Comfort Closet program allows members of the community to find gently used seasonal clothing and personal care items.
It also offers a Newcomer Program to help new community members navigate support systems, as well as free English classes and socialization opportunities. Youth programs give kids activities during PD days, spring break and throughout an 8-week summer camp. A social worker helps families and individuals with emotional and budgeting support. Fundraiser events also pop up throughout the year, including Veith House’s annual Spring Seedling Sale, the Summer Community BBQ, and the aforementioned Hydrostone Tree Lighting.
One of its greatest accomplishments is its Urban Farm and Community Garden, a backyard-spanning project that grows 300 pounds of local produce each year, all of which is made available and used for healthy food options. A family of chickens also provides 1,500 eggs a year for both Veith House’s meal service and for distribution to community members.
“Veith House actively supports communities who are most vulnerable, prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion, barrier-free access, person-centred and trauma-informed approaches to care, and most importantly, providing meaningful programs and services that directly address the unique needs of racialized and marginalized communities,” executive director Jamie Matthews tells The Coast.
“Now in our 51st year, we hope to expand upon this incredible work that has already been developed over our 50-year history in the community. We hope to make further investments in our beautiful grounds and historical building, activating our space, strengthening our initiatives to foster diversity, equity and inclusion in our programs and services, and expand our newcomer programming to provide even more relevant and meaningful opportunities for our diverse communities.”
Donations can be made directly to Veith House’s Happy Holidays fundraiser here.