10 Essential Items Canadians Can Donate to Homeless Shelters This Winter

Winter in Canada can be long, harsh, and unforgiving—especially for those without stable housing. Freezing temperatures, snow, and icy winds make it difficult for people experiencing homelessness to stay safe and warm. That’s why shelters, churches, and outreach organizations rely heavily on donations during the coldest months of the year.

If you’re looking for ways to make the greatest impact, focus on the essentials: warm clothing, bedding, and hygiene items. Donating in bulk ensures shelters have what they need to distribute supplies fairly and quickly.

At Bags in Bulk Canada we provide affordable bulk winter apparel, blankets, and care kits designed to meet these urgent needs. Here are 10 essential bulk items you can donate to Canadian homeless shelters this winter.

1. Clean Socks

Socks are among the most requested donation items year-round. A clean, dry pair helps prevent frostbite, blisters, and infections for people who walk long distances daily. Our wholesale men’s cotton crew socks are warm, durable, and available in bulk, so shelters can keep plenty on hand.

2. Men’s & Women’s Underwear

New underwear is another necessity that shelters rarely receive enough of. Having access to men’s boxer briefs and women’s underwear helps restore dignity and supports hygiene for individuals in need.

3. Winter Hats

A good hat is essential when temperatures drop below freezing. Heat escapes quickly from the head, making warm hats a lifesaver in Canadian winters. Our bulk winter knit beanies come in assorted colours and are designed to be warm, practical, and easy to distribute.

4. Winter Gloves and Scarves

Cold hands make daily tasks nearly impossible. Donating bulk winter knit gloves ensures that shelters can provide protection against frostbite and keep people’s hands warm and functional through the winter.

Scarves add an extra layer of warmth and can make a huge difference when paired with coats, hats, and gloves. Our bulk winter scarves are soft, practical, and available in bulk to help shelters meet demand.

5. Winter Coats

Nothing is more critical during a Canadian winter than a reliable coat. Shelters always need warm, durable outerwear that can withstand freezing temperatures and snow. Our bulk men’s hooded puffer coats are insulated, water-resistant, and designed for harsh conditions, making them a lifesaving donation item.

6. Bulk Blankets

A blanket provides warmth, comfort, and security—whether in a shelter or outdoors. Our plaid fleece bulk blankets and soft waffle bulk blankets are lightweight yet cozy, perfect for bulk donations to shelters and outreach programs.

7. Sleeping Bags

For individuals who cannot secure shelter space, sleeping bags can be lifesaving. Our bulk cold-weather sleeping bags are waterproof and rated for sub-zero conditions, offering essential protection against the elements.

8. Tents

While shelters are the first line of defense against the cold, some people still live outdoors. A tent provides privacy, protection from snow and wind, and a sense of security. Our bulk two-person tents are lightweight, durable, and easy to distribute through outreach programs.

9. Warm Hygiene Kits and Feminine Hygiene Kits

Good hygiene is critical for both health and confidence. Our bulk Warm Essential 23-Piece Homeless Care Kit includes toiletries, thermal socks, gloves, and other winter essentials, making it one of the most comprehensive donations you can give.

Access to feminine hygiene products is a constant challenge in shelters. Our Premium Essentials 25-Piece Feminine Hygiene Kit provides women with reliable, discreet supplies that promote dignity and well-being.

10. Instant Hand Warmers & Foot Warmers

Sometimes it’s the small things that bring the most relief. Our bulk hand and foot warmers provide quick, portable heat that can make long nights outdoors or in underheated spaces more bearable. They’re affordable, easy to carry, and perfect for bulk donation drives.

Why Bulk Donations Matter in Canada

Canadian winters are some of the toughest in the world. Shelters need large, reliable quantities of supplies to serve growing numbers of individuals and families. Donating in bulk ensures that everyone receives new, clean, high-quality items—without shelters struggling to sort mismatched donations.

At Bags in Bulk Canada, we make it easy to maximize your impact. Our wholesale prices mean your dollar goes further, and shelters receive exactly what they need to keep people safe, warm, and cared for.

Any Donation Can Save a Life This Winter

Every donation—big or small—helps fight the challenges of homelessness during a Canadian winter. Whether it’s a warm coat, a blanket, or a simple pair of socks, these items can change lives in the coldest months of the year.

If you’re planning a community drive, supporting a local charity, or making a personal contribution, explore our full collection of bulk winter apparel and accessories, bulk blankets, and bulk hygiene kits. Together, we can make winter safer and more bearable for those who need it most.