Students lead city‑wide effort: Hamilton Wentworth District School Board high schools support the YMCA Men’s Residence

With thanks to HWDSB students, the YMCA Men’s Residence is now stocked with hundreds of pounds of food and personal care kits, along with generous donations of toiletries, and clothing—amounting to more than 1,500 items.

Their donations will provide full grocery bags and hygiene items for 174 men, helping ensure nutritious meals and dignity through essentials at a critical time of year. Student Trustees and Senators from 11 Hamilton high schools didn’t just collect items; they organized a city-wide effort that showed what youth leadership looks like in action. Through planning, coordination, and friendly competition, they rallied peers, teachers, and families to support men living at the YMCA Men’s Residence.  

When the students visited the YMCA Men's Residence in Downtown Hamilton, they spoke about what the experience taught them about collaboration and taking action.  

“Peers have a big influence,” one student said. “When you see your friend donating, you feel motivated to donate.”  

Welcoming the students, Genevieve Hladysh, Vice President, Health, Fitness, Aquatics & Men’s Residence, said “The need is continuing to grow for us: we have 174 men here. Our average age is 58. Your leadership and generosity mean so much at this time of year.”

Teachers and caring adults also stepped up, offering encouragement and showing students how much people care about their community. For many, the biggest lesson was discovering how willing people are to help when given the chance.

The YMCA thanks HWDSB students, teachers, and families for their generosity in supporting the men at our YMCA Men’s Residence—and for demonstrating how youth leadership thrives when we gather and work together toward a shared goal.

About the YMCA Men’s Residence

Located at the Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA, the Men’s Residence provides clean, safe, affordable transitional and permanent housing for more than 170 men in Hamilton’s downtown. Residents have access to wraparound supports, including health services and case management, delivered in partnership with local agencies. A consistent in-house food pantry helps address food security while residents work toward stability and wellness.