Support Our Troops
Holiday Hamper Program

The Support Our Troops Holiday Hamper Program launched in 2015 offers CAF members and their families additional support during the holiday season. Since inception, the need for this grassroots program has grown. In 2024, the program supported 3,586 military families during the holidays across Canada. The network supporting the Holiday Hamper Program has begun to reach out to meet the needs of their local CAF community for this years program. With the holiday season approaching, we can only make this wonderful program a success with your assistance.

Soldier On
Equipment Grant Program

The Soldier On Equipment Grant Program provides financial assistance to eligible members to help defray the cost of sporting and recreational equipment and memberships to empower members to be active for life. The Soldier On Equipment Grant is currently disbursed to eligible members on a one-time basis and is limited in funding up to $750. This program is funded exclusively by donations from generous Canadians. 

Soldier On 

Dom Paradis, a retired Master Warrant Officer of the Canadian Army, shares how taking part in a Soldier On hockey event in Montreal marked a decisive step in his recovery, both socially and mentally.

“The Canadiens training camp with Soldier On was much more than an opportunity to be on the ice. The connections I made and the open, honest conversations we had had a lasting impact on my recovery. We share far more than just a jersey—these are moments that will stay with me forever.

Participating in the Soldier On hockey event in Montreal was a major milestone in my recovery, particularly on the social and mental fronts. Socially, the event was crucial, as it helped me break out of isolation, even in the middle of winter, by reconnecting with peers who understand the military experience and the realities of being a veteran. It rekindled a sense of belonging and team spirit that is simply irreplaceable.

Mentally, the honour of being selected and of taking part in such a meaningful experience became a powerful source of confidence and motivation. Having a positive goal helped me shift my focus away from everyday challenges, especially at that time of year, and allowed me to rediscover a sense of pride in my military service.” 

Soldier On 

Shawna Gagne, a retired Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class in the Royal Canadian Navy, shares how Soldier On events helped her rebuild confidence and discover new opportunities following her medical release.

“After nearly 24 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, I was medically released in April 2025, and I was so scared. All I could think was, “what am I going to do and who am I?” I felt like I had no skills and no idea what came next. Being selected by Soldier On for the Crumbs to Craft event truly changed that.

Over the last few days, I tried woodworking, cooking, and even smoking ribs on a huge smoker, and I realized there are still so many things I can learn and still do. Soldier On brought me human contact at a time when I really needed it. Being with a group of people who understand where you are coming from meant everything.

If it was not for Soldier On creating these kinds of opportunities, I would never have put myself out there to learn new skills or discover more about myself. I am extremely grateful they selected me.” 

  Acquiring a sense of belonging, within a community, is critically important and vital in one's path to recovery. When I received notice that I was accepted for this grant program to receive a paddleboard, that in itself gave me a great sense of purpose and belonging. In turn, it motivated me to improve my quality of life, as I felt that I mattered.  

Equipment Grant Program

  The grant allowed me to finish off a small archery range on my property. With my physical and mental health challenges after 34 years in the CAF, it is very easy for me to just “sit and watch TV”; this range helps me get outside, be involved in a sport and helps me “live life”….This range will likely be invaluable to me both from a mental and physical perspective during and after my transition out of the military. I am so thankful for the grant; it definitely sends a “we care” message and is a reminder of that message each time I see the 3D targets I was able to purchase with the grant.  

Equipment Grant Program

  The holidays are always a special time for our family, but they can also be incredibly stressful. With three kids, one of whom has special needs, the expenses add up quickly between gifts, special food, and holiday activities. Honestly, it's hard to make ends meet while ensuring my kids feel the magic of the season. Receiving support this holiday season would be an incredible gift. It would not only help us afford the extra costs associated with my child's needs but also free up some of our emotional energy to simply enjoy this time together as a family. It would mean the world to us to have a little extra breathing room and to know that our community cares. 

Holiday Hamper Program

  I just really appreciate this program. I was embarrassed to ask for it but the centre staff made me feel no shame. They didn't have to ask any invasive questions. The amount given to my family was way more than I could have hoped for and I just felt extremely grateful. Thank you so much. 

Holiday Hamper Program

Soldier On

Equipment Grants Program

“Since leaving "The Canadian Armed Forces," I have experienced feelings of isolation. However, with the support of my friends, family, and the Soldier On organization, I have been able to push myself beyond my comfort zone. One particular resource that has greatly enhanced my life is the fishing kayak I was able to purchase through the Soldier On equipment grant program. This kayak has opened up numerous opportunities for me to join fishing and paddling clubs, allowing me to spend more time outdoors and connect with like-minded individuals. Not only has it improved my physical well-being, but it has also positively impacted my mental and emotional state. The Soldier On program has truly been instrumental in helping me overcome obstacles and find a sense of belonging in my post-military life.”

– Anonymous

Soldier On

Equipment Grants Program

"I have always loved golfing and being active. It has been 4 years since I was diagnosed with PTSD. I stopped everything, found myself alone in life, and was uncertain about what was next. However, I found help and even though I still have some tough days, I am trying my hardest to get through this One Day at a Time. I am fortunate to have 3 good buddies who share my love for golf, and I have been able to go out with them four times now. This is a significant accomplishment considering the past 4 years. Thanks to the financial assistance from the Soldier on Grant Program, I am finally doing something that, due to my current financial situation, I would otherwise not have been able to do. So, thank you to Soldier On for making this possible.”

– Anonymous