Local Charities in London, Ontario
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Food Security & Homelessness Support
London Food Bank
"To help a generous community share its food resources."
Review of Donation Usage
The London Food Bank is exceptionally efficient. Their reliance on volunteers and strong community partnerships keeps fundraising and administrative costs remarkably low.
For every dollar donated, over 97 cents go directly to charitable programs.
Current Needs
Most-Needed Food
- Canned Fruit & Veggies
- Canned Meat & Fish
- Peanut Butter
- Healthy Cereal
- Special Diet Foods
Baby Products
- Baby Formula
- Diapers (all sizes)
- Pablum & Baby Food
Donation Logistics
Ark Aid Street Mission
"To serve the poor and those at risk in our community by providing a welcoming environment, practical assistance, and opportunities for positive life change."
Review of Donation Usage
As a frontline service organization, Ark Aid directs a very high percentage of its funds to program delivery, including meal programs, shelter, and outreach services. The remainder covers essential administrative and fundraising costs.
Based on its CRA filings, approximately 88 cents of every dollar is spent on its charitable work.
Current Needs
Clothing
- Fall/Winter Coats
- Boots & Warm Socks
- Long Johns
- New Underwear (S/M)
- Track Pants
Food & Supplies
- Protein (Meat, Eggs)
- Canned Goods (pull-tab)
- Granola Bars
- Pasta, Rice, Coffee
- Unopened Toiletries
Other Items
- Bus Tickets
- Backpacks
- Hand Warmers
- Single-sized Linens
- Reusable Bags
Donation Logistics
Mission Services of London
"Mission Services of London is a Christian faith-based social service agency... We provide shelter for men who are homeless, supports for people struggling with addiction, and emergency vouchers..."
Review of Donation Usage
Mission Services is a multi-service agency, which includes the operation of Men's Mission, Rotholme Family Shelter, and addiction support. The funds not used for program services are used for administration and fundraising to support these vital services.
Approximately 85 cents of every dollar donated is used for program services.
Current Needs
Clothing
- New Socks & Underwear
- Seasonal Outerwear
- Pajamas
- Gently Used Clothing
Personal Items
- Full-size Toiletries
- Towels & Facecloths
- Feminine Hygiene
- Razors & Shaving Cream
Household
- Diapers & Formula
- Non-perishable Food
- Linens & Bedding
Donation Logistics
The Unity Project for Relief of Homelessness
"The Unity Project provides safe, affordable, home-like emergency shelter and supportive housing for men, women, and youth aged 18 and over."
Review of Donation Usage
The Unity Project is highly effective in its fund allocation. This covers emergency shelter, supportive housing, and the intensive staff support that is central to their model of helping people transition out of homelessness.
Financial records show that approximately 89 cents of every dollar donated go directly to program costs.
Current Needs
Personal Care
- Travel-size Toiletries
- New Socks & Underwear
- Towels
- Feminine Hygiene
Kitchen & Food
- Coffee & Tea
- Sugar & Cooking Oil
- Juice Boxes
- Canned Meat & Fish
Other
- Cleaning Supplies
- Backpacks
- Gift Cards ($5-$10)
Donation Logistics
Anova (formerly Women's Community House and Sexual Assault Centre London)
"Future-oriented and feminist, we are dedicated to creating a world without violence and to supporting, advocating for, and empowering abused women, their children, and all oppressed individuals."
Review of Donation Usage
Anova is a fiscally responsible organization. Their critical services include emergency shelters, a 24-hour crisis and support line, counselling, and advocacy for survivors of gender-based violence.
For every dollar donated, approximately 86 cents are invested directly into critical services.
Current Needs
Shelter & Resident
- Pajamas & Slippers
- New Toiletries
- Journals & Activity Books
- Diapers & Baby Wipes
Food & Kitchen
- Coffee & Coffee Mate
- Juice Boxes
- Non-perishable Food
- New/Gently Used Cutlery
Donation Logistics
Scan for Anova's Amazon Wishlist.
Health & Wellness
Children's Health Foundation
"To support Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre, Thames Valley Children's Centre and Children’s Health Research Institute."
Review of Donation Usage
As a fundraising organization, the foundation's efficiency is measured by how much it grants to its healthcare partners. The remaining portion covers the costs of fundraising and administration necessary to generate these significant grants.
For every dollar spent, approximately 75 cents are transferred for equipment, research, and programs.
Current Needs (New Items Only)
Toys & Activities
- Lego & Duplo Sets
- Craft Kits & Art Supplies
- Board Games & Puzzles
- Action Figures & Dolls
For Teens
- Gift Cards (Amazon, etc.)
- Advanced Lego / Models
- Journals & Art Sets
- Portable Electronics
Donation Logistics
CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services
"To promote mental wellness, prevent mental illness and support recovery for people experiencing mental illness and/or addiction."
Review of Donation Usage
Donations are crucial for supporting CMHA's services like crisis intervention, mental health housing, court support, and various community wellness programs that often have funding gaps.
CMHA Thames Valley directs approximately 91 cents of every dollar to its program expenses.
Current Needs
Client Care Kits
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Soap & Body Wash
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Deodorant
Comfort Items
- New Socks
- New Underwear
- Pajamas
- Slippers
Donation Logistics
My Sister's Place
A program of CMHA, offering a safe, supportive community for women facing mental health challenges, addiction, homelessness, and trauma. It operates on a recovery model to empower women.
Review of Donation Usage
My Sister's Place operates under the financial umbrella of CMHA Thames Valley. Donations directly support its day programs, meals, and essential supplies for women in need, helping to fill gaps in core funding.
Operates under CMHA, which directs approximately 91 cents of every dollar to programs.
Current Needs
Personal Care
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Body Wash & Lotion
- Deodorant & Razors
- New Underwear (S,M)
Clothing & Linens
- T-shirts (short/long)
- Athletic Bottoms
- Hoodies & Sweatshirts
- Gently Used Bath Towels
Other Items
- Bus Tickets
- Gift Cards ($5-10)
- Rain Ponchos
- Fleece Blankets
Donation Logistics
Animal Welfare
Humane Society London & Middlesex
"To lead the community in the humane treatment of animals."
Review of Donation Usage
The Humane Society's direct animal care includes veterinary services, food, shelter operations, and adoption programs. The remaining costs are associated with administration and fundraising, as they receive no government funding for shelter services.
Approximately 68 cents of every dollar is used on direct animal care and sheltering.
Current Needs
For Cats & Dogs
- Canned Food (Pate)
- Durable Toys (e.g. Kong)
- Hot Dogs (for training)
- Pill Pockets
Shelter Supplies
- Cat Litter (non-clumping)
- Bleach & Paper Towels
- Garbage Bags
- Blankets & Towels
Donation Logistics
Community & Youth Development
BGC London (Boys and Girls Club)
"To provide a safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life."
Review of Donation Usage
BGC London is efficient with its resources. Donations are essential for keeping membership and program fees affordable, providing nutritious meals, and offering a wide range of developmental activities.
Approximately 84 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs for children and youth.
Current Needs
Program Supplies
- Art Supplies (all kinds)
- Craft Kits
- Board Games & Puzzles
- Lego & Building Blocks
Active Play
- Basketballs, Soccer Balls
- Skipping Ropes
- Pool Cues & Chalk
Snacks
- Nut-free Granola Bars
- Juice Boxes
- Crackers & Cookies
Donation Logistics
Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU)
"Guiding youth to reach their potential."
Review of Donation Usage
YOU demonstrates strong financial stewardship, with comprehensive youth programs that include housing support, skills training, social enterprise, and health services designed to help youth achieve independence and build successful futures.
Approximately 87 cents of every dollar is spent directly on their comprehensive youth programs.
Current Needs
For Youth Shelter
- New Underwear & Socks
- Pajamas
- Full-size Toiletries
- Non-perishable Food
For Employment
- Gently Used Professional
- Bus Tickets
- Gift Cards for Haircuts
Donation Logistics
Newcomer & Indigenous Support
Atlohsa Family Healing Services
"An Indigenous-led organization that provides community members with Indigenous-led programming and services that offer holistic healing and wellness."
Review of Donation Usage
Atlohsa directs a high proportion of its revenue to its core mission of providing culturally-appropriate services, including the Zhaawanong Shelter, mental wellness programs, and community support. The remainder is for administration and fundraising.
For every dollar spent, approximately 85 cents fund culturally-appropriate services.
Current Needs
Shelter Essentials
- New Toiletries
- New Underwear & Socks
- Diapers & Formula
- Non-perishable Food
Cultural Items
- Tobacco & Sage
- Fabric & Ribbons
- Beading Supplies
Donation Logistics
Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC)
"To provide settlement services and support to newcomers and to promote intercultural awareness and understanding."
Review of Donation Usage
The CCLC is very effective. Donations help provide critical resources not covered by core government funding, such as emergency support for families and enhanced youth integration programs.
CRA filings show that approximately 93 cents of every dollar is spent on programs and services for newcomers.
Current Needs
Kitchen Items
- Pots & Pans
- Dishes & Cutlery
- Small Appliances
- Kettles & Microwaves
Linens & Bedding
- Towels
- Bed Sheets
- Pillows & Comforters
Other Household
- Lamps
- Cleaning Supplies
- School Supplies
Donation Logistics
Environmental Initiatives
ReForest London
"To improve our environmental and human health in the Forest City by inspiring, educating and empowering Londoners to plant and care for trees."
Review of Donation Usage
This covers the cost of native trees and shrubs, program supplies, and community outreach. Their strong volunteer engagement helps maximize the impact of every financial contribution towards greening the city.
ReForest London dedicates approximately 82 cents of every dollar directly to its planting and education programs.
How to Help
Support
- Monetary Donations
- Sponsor a Tree
- Corporate Sponsorship
Volunteer
- Tree Planting Events
- After-care for Trees
- Community Outreach