Programs
Dreams & Wishes operates several programs throughout the year. Every child should be able to cherish and experience positive childhood memories and granting their dreams and wishes will assist in providing and developing those positive memories.
Un-Birthday Program
Dreams & Wishes organizes an annual Un-Birthday Party for those children residing in local shelters to go to Canada's Wonderland for the day. Participants & their parent / caregiver are provided transportation, park admission, food & drinks for the day and a personalized gift for each child from their wish list!
Santa's Wish List
Children residing in local Durham shelters are asked to write a wish list to Santa. Dreams & Wishes answers their letters to Santa and fills their specific toy requests identified in their letters. Gifts are delivered to the shelters with wrapping paper and tape several days before Christmas and placed under the tree for the children to open on Christmas morning.
Comfort Dream Bags
Comfort Dream Bags each contain a new pair of pyjamas, slippers, a book, toiletries, age appropriate toy and a stuffed animal which are provided to the shelter for distribution to families arriving at the shelters.
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Back-to-School with a Backpack at the Zoo
Children and their parent / guardian are invited to the Toronto Zoo for the day with transportation, admission, and snacks. Each child is given an age appropriate backpack chosen just for them based on their favorite color / interest and filled with all the school supplies they need to start the year with confidence. Setting kids up for success in school year ahead!
Santa's Magical Holiday Brunch
Children and their parent / caregivers are invited to experience the magic of the holidays by participating in Santa’s Magical Holiday Brunch hosted in in November. Participants are treated to a nutritious brunch at a local venue with entertainment, a visit with Santa, crafts, and a hand selected, age appropriate, non violent toy. Wish Lists are also filled out at this event.
Birthday Wishes Program
This program aims to provide children residing in the community (with their natural and/or kin family) and who meet Dreams & Wishes criteria with the opportunity to experience a magical Birthday Celebration. Each child referred to the program will receive everything needed to host an at-home birthday party along with a hand selected Birthday gift for child.
Spring Squishmallow Bonanza
Every Spring (April) Dreams & Wishes fills their trailer with over 200 Squishmallows and brings them to each shelter so every child / teen gets to choose a Squishmallow of their own! These toys are not just cute - they are comforting, soothing, and help to make the kids feel seen and valued. What a fun way to welcome the Spring weather!
Fly Into Summer at the Flying Squirrel
All Children living in shelters are taken to the Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park with their parent / caregiver to celebrate the end of the school year. They are provided transportation, admission, and grip socks! This type of shared experience helps to build bonds in the family unit and with other kids in similar circumstances! Bounce your cares away at this fun event!
Homeless Youth Care Packages
Youth in Durham experiencing homelessness are given items to help alleviate stress. Duffle bags for their possessions, light blankets, journals and art supplies are frequently needed. Youth toiletries and personal care items are also donated to local youth shelters in addition to gift cards during our Holiday Giving Programs for any youth who do not qualify for the Wish List Program.