Authored by: Bryan Lachapelle, President & CEO
At B4 Networks, success isn’t just about technology or business growth - it’s also about the positive impact we make in the community we call home. Each winter, many individuals and families across Niagara struggle to stay both warm and well-nourished.
Our Warmth & Wellness Holiday Drive is one way we can help. This year, we’re proud to support Community Blessing Boxes and The Hope Centre by collecting food, winter clothing, and hygiene items for our neighbours in need.
From November 7th to December 5th, 2025, our team and the community are coming together to make this season a little brighter for others.
What Is the Warmth & Wellness Drive?
Warmth & Wellness is our annual holiday initiative focused on collecting:
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New and gently used winter wear
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Non-perishable food items
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Basic hygiene essentials
Everything donated will be shared with local organizations that directly support people throughout the Niagara region, including Community Blessing Boxes and The Hope Centre.
When local businesses give back, it strengthens relationships, builds trust, and creates a sense of shared purpose. Most importantly, it provides real, practical support to local families.
What to Donate: Most Needed Items
If you’re wondering what to bring, here’s a handy guide to the items that make the biggest impact.
1. Food Items
Please focus on shelf-stable foods - items that don’t require refrigeration and are easy to store and prepare.
Great options include:
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Grains:
Rice, pasta, noodles, oats, cereal, granola, flour -
Proteins:
Canned meats or fish, beans (dry or canned), lentils, peanut butter, nut butters -
Fruits & Vegetables:
Canned fruits, canned vegetables, fruit cups, applesauce -
Pantry Staples:
Crackers, granola bars, soup, canned meals, pasta sauce, baking ingredients -
Special Diet Items:
Gluten-free snacks and staples, low-sugar or diabetic-friendly items, halal options
Whenever possible, choose items with easy-open tops to make them more accessible to people who may not have a can opener.
2. Winter Clothing
Warm clothing is essential in our Canadian winters. We’re collecting new or gently used items in clean, good condition, such as:
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Hats
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Mittens and gloves
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Scarves
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Warm socks
These items help people of all ages stay safe and comfortable during the coldest months.
3. Hygiene Essentials
Hygiene items are often overlooked but deeply appreciated. We’re accepting:
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Shampoo and conditioner
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Soap and body wash
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Deodorant
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Toothpaste and toothbrushes
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Feminine hygiene products
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Laundry soap (pods or small bottles, where possible)
These basics go a long way in helping people feel clean, confident, and cared for.
4. Pet & Baby Items (If You’re Able)
If you’d like to go a step further, consider donating items for pets and babies:
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Pet food:
Cat or dog food (dry or canned) -
Baby items:
Baby formula, baby food pouches or jars, diapers, wipes
These donations help families stretch their budgets while still caring for the smallest (and furriest) members of the household.
A Quick Note About Expiry Dates
It’s common to wonder whether food slightly past its “best before” date can still be donated. In many cases, the answer is yes - as long as the items are unopened, sealed, and still in good condition.
Food Banks Canada explains that many food banks can safely accept certain foods past their best before date, depending on the product type and how it has been stored. This practice not only supports people in need but also helps reduce food waste.
If you’re unsure, a good rule of thumb is:
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Check that the package is sealed and undamaged
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Avoid items that are very far past the date or show any signs of spoilage
When in doubt, feel free to choose items that are comfortably within their dates.
Where and When to Donate
All donations for the Warmth & Wellness Drive can be dropped off at:
Location
B4 Networks
160 Hwy 20 W #10
Fonthill, Ontario
Hours
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Whether you’re dropping off a single can of soup or a full bag of winter clothing, every contribution helps.
Making Winter Warmer, Together
At B4 Networks, people come first - our clients, our team, and our community. The Warmth & Wellness Holiday Drive is one way we live that value each year by supporting Community Blessing Boxes, The Hope Centre, and the neighbours who rely on them.
Together, we can make this winter a little warmer and a little brighter, one donation at a time.
If you’d like more information about what to donate or how to get involved, please contact our team at 905-228-4809, or marketing@b4networks.ca - we’re happy to help.
To request a Free Discovery Consultation, fill out the form below, or call us at 905-228-4809 (Niagara office) or 705-885-0993 (Barrie office) to get the conversation started.
