As the temperatures begin to drop, Bridge City Warmth (BCW) continues to shine as a beacon of compassion and community spirit in Saskatoon and the surrounding area. The registered non-profit organization is entirely volunteer-run and dedicated to supporting the city’s most vulnerable residents through outreach, essential supplies, and care rooted in kindness.
Bridge City Warmth operates with a simple yet powerful mission; to ensure that everyone in the community has access to warmth, safety, and dignity during Saskatchewan’s harsh winter months. Volunteers collect and distribute items such as winter clothing, blankets, toiletries, and food, while also offering human connection and understanding to those who need it most.
Because BCW is 100% volunteer-driven, there are plenty of opportunities for people to get involved; whether they have a few hours each month or want to lend a hand occasionally. Volunteers help sort donated clothing, blankets, food, and hygiene items, or take part in outreach events where they distribute essentials directly to Saskatoon’s vulnerable population. Others assist behind the scenes with fundraising, donation pickups, or organizing special events.
“There’s no long-term commitment required,” BCW volunteer Melissa stated. “Just a willingness to help and a compassionate heart.”
Bridge City Warmth accepts a wide range of items, with high-priority needs including warm adult winter gear such as boots, toques, mitts, gloves, and heavy jackets, along with blankets, toiletries, and personal-care products. Gift cards and financial donations are also welcome to help purchase urgently needed supplies.
Donation drop-off locations are available in Saskatoon, Martensville, and Warman (contact BCW to find a location near you), and financial contributions can be made via GoFundMe or e-transfer to bridgecitywarmth@gmail.com.
From October 26th–30th, BCW will host its annual Online Facebook Auction, featuring thousands of dollars in items up for bid, with proceeds going directly to outreach efforts.
Then, on October 30th, volunteers will be out distributing warm clothing, blankets, and toiletries to those in need.
Looking ahead, BCW is preparing for its first-ever Bridge City Warmth Hockey Tournament Fundraiser, set for January 31, 2026, at the Rosthern Jubilee Rink. The family-friendly event will feature six teams competing in a spirited tournament to raise funds and awareness for BCW’s mission to keep Saskatoon’s vulnerable residents warm and cared for.
Individuals are encouraged to come out to cheer, volunteer, or participate in raffles and other fundraising activities, while local businesses are invited to get involved by sponsoring a team, rink, or prize. Businesses can also donate raffle items, contribute to auction packages, or provide financial support to help cover event costs so that more funds can go directly toward helping those in need.
Through teamwork, generosity, and compassion, Bridge City Warmth continues to prove that small acts of kindness can create lasting change.
For more information, to volunteer, or to donate, visit Bridge City Warmth on Facebook or email bridgecitywarmth@gmail.com.
ABOVE: Homelessness in Saskatoon has almost tripled since 2022, increasing from 550 to 1499 in 2024. Data for this year has not yet been provided. According to the Saskatoon Fire Department, encampments have been reported in every neighborhood within the city, and as of September 1st, there have been 1248 encampments, with crews intervening to clear 357. In 2024, crews cleared a total of 218 encampments in Saskatoon.
