Neighbour Gift Bag Program - Waterloo Wayside

Everyone has something to give.

The Neighbour Gift Bag program turns simple paper bags into pathways of care and connection. Whether you picked up a stamped bag at a local event, received one through an organization drive, or stamped your own at home, filling a bag helps us ensure everyone in our community has access to essential items and warm meals.

Items Needed Right Now

Based on the seasonal and immediate needs of our community members, we would greatly appreciate:

Clean, reusable takeout containers with lids (black/clear plastic)
Empty, clean yogurt containers (with matching lids)
Unopened travel-sized toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap)
Socks and underwear (new and clean)

Updated November, 2026

Items can be placed inside any stamped Neighbour Gift Bag and dropped off Tuesday to Friday, 1:00-3:00 PM.

How It Works

1. Get a Bag

Pick up a stamped bag at an upcoming event (like a community event), or upcycle your own paper bags using our community rubber stamp.

2. Fill It Up

Check the priority list above or the checklist stamped on the bag to fill it with essential toiletries, food items, or food containers.

3. Drop It Off

Return your filled bag to Waterloo Wayside at
22 Bridgeport Rd. West, Waterloo.
Every item contributed goes directly to supporting local community members.

Host a Neighbour Bag Drive

Are you a business, school, workplace, or faith community looking for an easy, impactful way to support your neighbours? You can borrow a Wayside Rubber Stamp Kit to run your own drive! Simply upcycle plain paper bags, stamp them with our custom artwork and QR code, and invite your team or customers to fill them.

Interested in borrowing a stamp kit? Contact our Program Coordinator at gieselag@waterloowayside.org or call 519-886-1471 ext 198.

Where to Bring Your Filled Bags

Waterloo Wayside | 22 Bridgeport Rd. West, Waterloo, ON.

Drop-off is available Tuesday through Friday from 1:00-3:00 PM.