At CHATS, everything we do is guided by one purpose: supporting seniors to live their best at home. Partnerships are essential to making that possible. United Way is one of our key funders and plays a vital role in strengthening the programs, services, and community connections that help older adults remain safe, supported, and independent in their own homes.

United Way’s support helps make important CHATS programs possible, including the Hoarding and De-Cluttering Support Program (which assists seniors in creating safer, more livable spaces) and our Diversity, Wellness and Outreach Programs (which help reduce isolation and ensure seniors from diverse backgrounds feel connected and supported in their communities).

Learn more about the Hoarding and De-Cluttering Support Program at https://chats.on.ca/home-safety-services/hoarding-de-cluttering-support-program/

Learn more about Diversity, Wellness and Outreach Programs at https://chats.on.ca/community-programs/diversity-wellness-outreach-programs/

Because of this shared commitment to seniors and caregivers, our team felt it was important to give back. Over the past several weeks, CHATS staff came together in meaningful and creative ways to support United Way Greater Toronto and the important work they do across our region.

United Way asks partners to fundraise to create a large and diversified pool of money for vital community programs, while taking pressure off individual charities. This helps build community engagement, and ensures stable, planned investments for non-profits to address issues like poverty, health, and education.

One of the most visible moments of that commitment came on November 16, 2025, when members of the CHATS team took on the CN Tower Stair Climb. Climbing 1,776 steps was no small feat, especially for a team participating for the first time. It was challenging, tiring, and at times intimidating. Step by step, we encouraged one another, pushed forward together, and reached the top having raised $1,250 in support of United Way.

For our team, the climb represented more than a physical challenge. It reflected our shared belief that strong communities make it possible for seniors to live well at home. By standing together and giving back, we were contributing to the broader network of support that so many older adults rely on.

Back at the office, that same spirit of generosity continued in lighter, but no less meaningful, ways. Battle of the Bowls, a staff-led soup fundraiser, brought colleagues together over creativity, laughter, and some truly impressive cooking. With nine homemade soups and 19 enthusiastic tasters, the event raised $200 for the United Way Staff Giving Campaign.

The competition was friendly and the energy was high. The Golden Ladle went to Emily Viray for her Potato Cheddar Bacon Soup, a fan favourite that warmed both hearts and bellies. Every cook who participated helped turn a simple lunch into an opportunity to support seniors and the communities they call home.

Beyond the soup bowls, staff found many other ways to contribute. There was a draw to win lunch with Vice President Mario Longo, which raised $235. Candy-grams were sent across the organization, spreading encouragement along with a sweet treat. CHATS Supporting United Way buttons were proudly worn and sold.

The Caregiver Education team partnered with Moth and Crow Apothecary Co. to launch Snowflakes for Seniors, selling 92 handcrafted snowflake soaps. One Staff member contributed festive Mary Kay gift packages, and the Philanthropy and Communications Team organized a CHATS Pop Up Shop that brought everything together. Three CHATS Staff members donated to the United Way as an ongoing payroll deduction that will give back the entire year. Snacks were provided by the Client Service Managers, and all proceeds from purchases were donated to the United Way.

Each initiative reflected the creativity, generosity, and care that define the CHATS team and our shared commitment to helping seniors live their best at home.

Thanks to this collective effort, we did not just meet our goal. We surpassed it. Together, CHATS staff raised more than $3,000 in support of United Way Greater Toronto.

More importantly, this experience reinforced who we are as an organization. When we show up for our partners, support one another, and invest in our community, we strengthen the systems that allow seniors to live safely, independently, and with dignity at home.

To everyone who organized, participated, donated, cooked, climbed, cheered, or encouraged, thank you. Your efforts made a meaningful difference for our community and for the seniors we are proud to serve.