Every act of generosity has a story behind it. Sometimes it’s a neighbour dropping off groceries, other times it’s a donation that helps a senior feel less alone. GivingTuesday, celebrated globally on December 2nd this year, is about those stories—it’s about the ripple effect of kindness that strengthens our communities.
A Story of Local Impact
In 2022, the City of Toronto shared how GivingTuesday donations through the DonateTO hub supported local initiatives. One senior, living alone and struggling with isolation, was able to access a community program thanks to funds raised that day. That single gift enabled her to join the weekly exer
cise and lunch program, connect with others, and receive the support she needed to stay well.
Her story is just one example of how generosity changes lives. When people come together, even with small contributions, the impact is profound. A meal delivered, a program funded, or a safe space created can mean the difference between loneliness and connection, between struggling and thriving.
Why Giving Matters Now
Today, seniors face rising living costs, health challenges, and increased isolation. The need for community support has never been greater. GivingTuesday reminds us that generosity is not only about money—it’s about hope, solidarity, and the belief that we can care for one another.
And giving matters now because the challenges facing communities are urgent, not distant. The Toronto Star notes that GivingTuesday is more than a symbolic day—it is a global movement that responds to immediate needs by mobilizing generosity in real time. Rising inflation, the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, and widening social gaps mean that local organizations cannot wait for long-term solutions; they need support today to keep programs running and to keep vulnerable residents connected. Every donation made now ensures that seniors, families, and marginalized groups have access to resources when they need them most, turning generosity into timely action that safeguards well-being and dignity.
ESS Support Services: Our GivingTuesday Campaign
At ESS Support Services, we see these stories every day. Seniors who light up when they hear music, caregivers who find relief in knowing their loved ones are supported, and families who feel connected through our programs.
This year, our GivingTuesday 2025 campaign is focused on bringing the healing power of music to seniors through a comprehensive Music Therapy Program. Music can reduce isolation, lift spirits, and improve overall well-being. With your donation—big or small—we can expand this program and continue providing the high standard of care our clients deserve.
On December 2nd, we invite you to be part of this story. Consider donating to ESS and help us bring joy, connection, and healing to seniors in our community. Together, we can show why the world needs GivingTuesday now more than ever.
Sources
City of Toronto. (2022, November 29). On Giving Tuesday, City of Toronto gives thanks for gifts received in 2022 and encourages residents to give to local initiatives through the DonateTO hub. City of Toronto. https://www.toronto.ca/news/on-giving-tuesday-city-of-toronto-gives-thanks-for-gifts-received-in-2022-and-encourages-residents-to-give-to-local-initiatives-through-the-donateto-hub/
Toronto Star. (2024, December 3). What is Giving Tuesday? What to know about the global generosity movement. Toronto Star. https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/what-is-giving-tuesday-what-to-know-about-the-global-generosity-movement/article_144bf164-b0f3-11ef-8f1b-13f80cc474b7.html
Author:
Courtney Gharakhan is a placement student at ESS Support Services, currently completing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Windsor. She brings valuable experience from her role as an individual counsellor at Yellow Brick House, where she supports women impacted by abuse and violence with empathy and compassion.
Courtney is deeply passionate about empowering vulnerable populations and amplifying the voices of service users. Her approach is rooted in person-centered care, which meets the unique needs and values the experiences of those she serves. She appreciates learning directly from service users and sees their insights as essential to meaningful change. Outside of her professional work, Courtney enjoys spending time with family, connecting with nature, cooking, and exploring interior design.