During the festive season, WestJet spreads holiday cheer by delivering gifts to families with critically sick and injured children staying at Ronald McDonald House locations.
The Gift of Giving
More than 400 WestJet employees have gathered to shop, wrap, and deliver gifts to over 600 families across 16 Ronald McDonald House locations around Canada. These gifts consist of a range of items for both children, and parents and caregivers. From toy cars, dolls, and stuffed animals to blankets, thermoses, and noise-cancelling headphones, WestJet have ensured that there is something for everyone. These are accompanied by gift cards from WestJet’s partners, including TELUS, Canadian Tire, and Skip, whilst a partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays has lead to the gifting of team merchandise.
Kate Horton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ronald McDonald House Canada, said:
“The holidays can be especially difficult for families who are away from home seeking life-saving medical care, and we are profoundly grateful for WestJet’s generosity every day in bringing extra comfort and connection during and unimaginable time.”
Not only has WestJet utilised its WestJet Cargo operations to ensure gifts arrive in time for the holidays, employees have spoken with alumni families to better understand what items would make a real difference.
More on WestJet
WestJet, founded in 1996 with just over 200 employees, has been partnered with Ronald McDonald House Canada since 2007. Whilst this airline began with only three aircrafts operating service to five destinations, it now has nearly 200 aircrafts that connect travellers to more than 100 destinations, all supported by more than 14,000 employees.
WestJet has a deep connection with Ronald McDonald House Canada, and it seems the spirit of giving and volunteering during times of need will be continued by the WestJet Group, Canada’s leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider.
WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer, Samantha Taylor, has shared on the subject:
“We saw huge excitement, with more than 700 of our WestJetters from across the country stepping forward to volunteer. It’s a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together and open our hearts, especially during the holiday season.”
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