• Delivering our services equitably and fairly, with dignity and respect
• Providing our services as efficiently as possible
• Being accountable to our clients, donors and the public

In 1914, the local community came together to offer support at Christmas time to the families of those called to war. The following year the Christmas Exchange was created giving an opportunity for individuals and organizations to provide Christmas cheer to needy families. From 1915, through the great depression of the 1930s, the second World War, and up to present day, the Christmas Exchange has been bringing together those in need with those who wished to help.

Click here for a detailed history of the Christmas Exchange

Who We Are Now

The Christmas Exchange of Ottawa is a volunteer driven organization headed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Since 1915, Christmas Exchange has been delivering food and hope to eligible families referred each year by churches, schools and social agencies — those who know the need first hand. We also provide a central registry to cross reference clients and avoid duplication. This way we are able to ensure that every dollar goes where it is truly needed — distributed evenly and fairly. The Christmas Exchange is completely funded through the generosity of our donors. The service we provide our community is at no cost to the taxpayer or any level of government.

What We Have Accomplished

Christmas Exchange Comparative Campaign Results

1. In 2009, the amount saved in toy assistance, thanks again to the duplicate check, was $497,400 (based on the average gift of $150 per child).
2. When taking into consideration the cost of operating the Christmas Exchange Centralized Database, which was 12% of the overall program disbursement, the ratio of expenses to savings in 2009 was 1:15, or for every $1 spent, $15 was saved in the community, allowing for the donations from the public to go considerably further.

A successful campaign is the result of careful planning, volunteer effort, financial and in-kind contributions of hundreds of individuals and businesses. We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors.

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