Community comes together to raise over $15,000 for Youth in Transition

Thanks to the generosity of our community and the support of The Home Depot Canada Foundation, this spring’s Orange Door Project Campaign raised an incredible $15,132.26 in support of the YMCA’s Youth in Transition Worker (YITW) program.

From May 27 to June 22, customers at The Home Depot stores on Centennial Parkway North in Hamilton and Martindale Crescent in Ancaster stepped up to make a difference. Every donation made at checkout contributed directly to helping youth ages 16–24 who are transitioning out of the child welfare system and working toward independent living.

The YMCA’s YITW program is a vital resource for more than 250 young people each year, providing wraparound support including access to safe housing, job training, education planning, life skills, and mental health resources. These supports are often the difference between instability and a hopeful, independent future.

“Youth homelessness is scary because it’s real,” said Catherine Thorpe, Customer Experience Manager at the Hamilton Home Depot. “Youth in Transition inspires the possibility that there’s hope. Instead of just ending something awful, we’re helping them build a brighter future.”

The funds raised will go directly toward removing everyday barriers for youth—whether that’s covering the cost of transportation, providing meals and hygiene supplies, or connecting them with the right services and opportunities to thrive.

On behalf of the YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford, we extend our heartfelt thanks to The Home Depot Canada Foundation, our local Home Depot partners, and every customer who gave generously at the checkout. Together, we are helping youth find stability, independence, and the confidence to build a brighter tomorrow. 

#YSavesLives #ShineOn #IgnitePotential

Learn more about how the YMCA is supporting youth in our community.

See youth programs