Volunteerism and charity work thrive in Flamborough & Waterdown

Hamilton is a tale of two cities. On the one hand, the sad truth is Hamilton Police Service recorded a 61 per cent increase in hate crimes or bias incidents in 2022, with 174 reports. Further, homelessness has jumped 50% since the onset of the pandemic and food bank use is up 40% in the last year alone. While our city suffers some very real problems both social and economic, it leads the province in one particularly outstanding statistic. You may be surprised to learn that Hamilton tops all of Ontario in terms of per-capita volunteerism. We’re a clear leader when it comes to people helping people. I want to highlight some of the outstanding volunteer and charitable groups that help make life better for people in Flamborough and Waterdown.

Established in 2009, the Flamborough Women’s Resource Centre (FWRC) is a program of Interval House Hamilton. Located in Waterdown, it offers community-based supports for women who have experienced abuse or violence. In addition, FWRC maintains a variety of services for women in the community, including individual counselling, legal advocacy, transitional housing support, plus information & referrals. An extremely important service in our community, FWRC is committed to ongoing efforts to end violence against women.  

Founded in 1955, the Rotary Club of Waterdown is a community-based service club with the motto of "Service Above Self". The Rotary Club encourages service to one’s community, as well as international causes. In Waterdown, the Rotary Club is the primary organizer of RibFest, while also focusing on charity work, youth development, and community engagement.  

Migrants Matter, Flamborough supports more than 300 temporary foreign workers in the area. What began as the efforts of two churches to offer a weekly meal, has expanded into ongoing emotional, physical, and language support, along with event programming. The volunteers are exceptional at creating awareness and enhancing inclusivity within our community.

The Gandhi Peace Festival is co-sponsored by McMaster University and City of Hamilton, along with several partners. Now in its 31st year, it is the longest running peace festival in all of Canada. It embodies the ideals of its namesake, by promoting peace and non-violence. Further, it’s a meeting place for local human rights groups and peace agencies to share insights and highlight their own efforts and opportunities.   

Since 1958, the Optimist Club of Carlisle has supported children, youth, and families in the Carlisle and Flamborough area. The club offers support programs that enrich the lives of community members. Some of their signature events include Christmas in Carlislie, a diaper drive, kids’ bike rodeo, community breakfasts, and - for more than 50 years – ‘learn to skate’.

As a registered charity, Eagles Nest provides mental health and counselling services to community members. Caring for women, families, and children, Eagles Nest offers free or low-cost mental health and family support services, thanks to the proceeds generated by its Freelton-based thrift store. Donated items, such as books, clothing, furniture, and household goods form the backbone of the store’s inventory.

Flamborough Connects (FC) links residents to agencies, businesses, and services in and around Flamborough, Waterdown, and Carlisle. The organization, based in Waterdown, works directly with local non-for-profit agencies and volunteers to promote community development. Further, Flamborough Connects facilitates a multi-dimensional hub for Flamborough youth, where they can engage with each other, build networks, and share interests. For seniors and persons with disabilities, FC coordinates a variety of support programs for people to stay safe and comfortable in their homes. In 2022, volunteers helped file more than 225 income tax returns. Refunds, rebates, and benefits totaled over $645,000 for the residents who need it most. FC also helps connect people to Snow Angels, a volunteer snow removal service for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Here is a breakdown of the many ways Flamborough Connects has helped residents throughout 2023:

Hamilton doesn’t lack for political and economic challenges. Much work is needed to combat the difficult realities of our city. However, the unwavering commitment to helping each other is present across Ward 15. My deep thanks and appreciation for these groups and to all those who donate time and energy to making our community a better place.