LiftThe Burden
No individual should carry the weight of financial burdens while fighting for their life.
Our Mission
To provide sustainable funding for programs that eases the financial burdens and promote wellness for low-income people living with breast cancer in Calgary and area (our Community).
What We Do
Wings of Hope is a registered, 100% volunteer-run, charitable organization that provides financial relief for basic living expenses, allowing breast cancer patients to focus on their recovery. Patients who are receiving treatment from the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre or have received treatment previously from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre are eligible for funding. Due to the dramatic increase in 2025 applications -funding currently covers housing, groceries and utilities.
Our Impact as Wings of Hope approaches its 30th Year
Since its founding in 1996, Wings of Hope—thanks to the unwavering support of donors, sponsors and volunteers—has raised more than $1.3 million to provide direct financial assistance to those facing breast cancer treatment and struggling to afford basic necessities for themselves and their families. This crucial support allows recipients to focus on healing and recovery without the added burden of financial stress. Of the total funds raised, 71% have been directed towards housing, with over 750 instances of support provided, while 20% has helped put groceries on the table. The remaining funds have been allocated across utilities, medical costs, phone bills, and transportation. With the rising cost of living, the demand for Wings of Hope’s assistance continues to grow. We encourage you to help make a difference—please consider donating today.
How Wings of Hope Uses Your Donations: Impact and Opportunities
Making a Difference: The Power of Your Donation
Wings of Hope is dedicated to supporting individuals undergoing treatment for breast cancer by providing essential financial assistance. Every donation received by our supporters is carefully managed and directed to where it is needed most, ensuring maximum impact for families in need.
2023–2024: Impact in Numbers
|
Year |
Net Funds Raised | Number of Families Helped | Direct Funding Provided | Number of Applications | *Gifts of Hope Hampers |
2023 |
$306,000 | 41 | $146,000 | 116 |
25 valued at ~$700 each |
2024 |
$267,000 | 31 | $90,000 | 64 |
25 valued at ~$900 each |
In 2023, Wings of Hope raised $306,000 and provided direct funding totalling $146,000 to help 41 families. In 2024, the net funds raised were $267,000, with $90,000 in direct funding assisting 31 families. Despite steady efforts, the number of applications received dropped from 116 in 2023 to 64 in 2024.
Direct Funding Breakdown
Category |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Housing (rent/mortgage) |
$98,971 |
$65,585 |
| Groceries |
$32,880 |
$16,668 |
| Utilities |
$9,890 |
$5,527 |
| Medical Needs |
$2,308 |
$1,235 |
| Transportation |
$990 |
$394 |
| Phone |
$567 |
$567 |
Donations directly support vital needs such as housing, groceries, utilities, medical requirements, transportation, and phone services. The allocation of funds is reviewed annually to ensure families receive comprehensive support during their treatment journey.
Challenges and Strategic Response
The decrease in direct funding between 2023 and 2024 was directly correlated with a drop in applications. This deficiency was identified by the Wings of Hope Board of Directors, who responded by launching a targeted outreach initiative.
To address this, a training session was held at the new Arthur J.E. Child Cancer Centre in early 2025. This session presented by the Director of AFAP for Wings of Hope brought the mission and application qualifications into the forefront of assistance available with the centre’s social work team. As a result, 2025 has seen an unprecedented increase in the number of immediate need-based applications stressing the current available funding.
How You Can Help
With demand at an all-time high, Wings of Hope needs your support more than ever. Here are ways you can help:
- Donate Online: Make a one-time or monthly contribution through our secure online portal.
- Fundraising Events: Organize or participate in community fundraisers such as charity runs, bake sales, or silent auctions.
- Corporate Sponsorship: Encourage your workplace to support Wings of Hope through payroll donations or matching gift programs.
- Gift Hampers: Donate items, gift cards or funds towards our Gifts of Hope hampers, which provide direct comfort to families during the holiday season. *This program is paused for 2025 – funds allocated for this will be used to directly fund the current application que.
- Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends and family to increase awareness and support.
We couldn’t have offered this support to our clients without the generosity demonstrated by our donors, sponsors, and volunteers. Your support enables Wings of Hope to continue providing critical financial assistance to those undergoing breast cancer treatment. Every dollar makes a difference and truly can change a life—an emphatic Thank You for helping us bring hope to those who need it most!
