2024 Impact Awards winner: SIR Solutions

When an employee mentioned she was collecting non-perishable food items to help Sainte-Gertrude elementary school in Montreal, SIR Solutions jumped at the chance to participate.

That was in 2012. Today, the company continues its Christmas basket initiative. 

It has evolved and expanded over the years, explains Nicola Hill, director of marketing. “We want to help and do our part.” 

It’s a multi-faceted approach that includes placing large boxes throughout the office, on-site bake sales with treats baked by colleagues. 

Fundraising initiatives may also involve a sell your salad contest, which has employees bringing their most delicious creations and staff voting on their favourite. 

Over the years, there has also been an ugly sweater day, hot cider sale and a wear-your-jeans day, where you could wear denim to work in exchange for a $2 donation. 

Everyone from management to the company social committee has been involved with fundraising and the donation of clothes, toys and household items. 

“There has been so much generosity,” says Hill. “And so many emotional moments when we receive responses to our requests.” 

SIR Solutions also supports other community efforts, serving meals at the Mission Old Brewery and helping to redesign a schoolyard in the Saint-Michel neighbourhood.