Winter for many Canadians can often present challenges as we find ways to cope with frigid temperatures. Fortunately, The Salvation Army Thrift Store has been collaborating with Fairchild Radio in Vancouver, British Columbia, to provide warmth for 30 years to our shared communities through the Winter Warm Wave campaign.
Fairchild Radio Ambassadors with Thrift Store Staff
Background
The initiative was founded by Fairchild Radio in the early1990’s and has deep roots in establishing community. When migrants from Hong Kong, Taiwan and China arrived in Canada during that time, many faced difficulties adapting to their new environment. However, Fairchild Radio was there to help them find a sense of community as they settled into their new homes. The project has since evolved into a multifaceted Fairchild Media Group effort that continues to build and support local communities with widespread engagement across radio, television and digital channels. The Winter Warm Wave campaign is a continuation of that legacy, drawing enthusiastic participation from the community annually.
Each year, the campaign collects clothing donations from Fairchild’s listeners and viewers, which are donated to The Salvation Army Thrift Store to make a positive impact to the local community. In 2024, over 415,000 lbs of clothing were collected and generously given to our organization!
Impact
The impact of Winter Warm Wave has grown significantly, leading to the creation of two other initiatives called Give the Gift of Warmth, and Pick-up from Your Home which help in collecting even more clothing for The Salvation Army Thrift Store.
One of these initiatives’ most engaging elements is to invite winners of two talent shows previously organized by Fairchild Radio to take on an active role as Ambassadors of the Winter Warm Wave campaign to collect and manage donations.
Vivien Louie, VP & Assistant General Manager at Fairchild Radio Vancouver shared the grandeur scale of community involvement stating, “It’s a creative idea that we can come together and do something special,” adding, “we always want to involve our colleagues, our employees, our talents and our artists because they are like celebrities and have an impact in the community which affects how the young generations perceive these different kinds of events.”
Winnie Yau, the Promotion Manager at Fairchild Radio also emphasized the campaign’s importance, “It is already our signature charity event and makes us strong because we do something for the community, and it helps The Salvation Army Thrift Store. It’s a win-win situation for both of us.”
We are incredibly grateful for this long-standing partnership with Fairchild Radio, which not only warms hearts but also ensures that individuals and families in need receive essential support during the cold winter months. We hope Fairchild Radio’s generosity will inspire others to host donation drives to make a meaningful impact in their local community. Learn more about how to get involved.
Fairchild Radio Youth Ambassadors