Mr. Speaker, today is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity and community, an opportunity to reflect on local needs, support important causes and give through donations or volunteering. Volunteering is how we learn about ourselves and the world. It is woven into who we are as Canadians, and we are people who care.
According to the “World Giving Index”, Canada ranks 11th for generosity, yet Volunteer Canada and Statistics Canada report a decades-long decline in volunteer hours and participation. This matters because organizations, such as United Way Greater Toronto, The Neighbourhood Group, Scadding Court Community Centre and Crossroads International, rely on volunteers to deliver essential supports to our most vulnerable.
Volunteering strengthens belonging, reduces social isolation, builds lifelong skills and weaves together a stronger community fabric. It reminds us that we coexist and we thrive together. Even a few hours can make a real difference for the volunteers and the organizations that receive their support.
On this Giving Tuesday, and throughout the holiday season, I encourage Canadians to give what they can, and even more importantly, to give their time, when possible.