Gap Canada Donates Over $3 Million of New Clothing to Canadians in Need

exterior of gap canada store.

By Jessica Finch

Gap Canada Inc. is donating more than $3 million of new Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy (Canada) clothing to those in need in direct response to the COVID-19 crisis that has left many Canadians struggling to provide basic necessities for their families and those left unemployed and who need support getting back on their feet.

GAP CANADA AND DELIVERING GOOD HAVE PARTNERED FOR THE INITIATIVE

The leading global retailer has partnered with Delivering Good — a non-profit organization that unites retailers, manufacturers, foundations, and individuals to support those affected by poverty and tragedy – to launch the generous initiative. The donated clothing items are going directly to LIFE*SPIN located in London, Ontario. The donation is designed to help those who are struggling to rebuild after the COVID-19 pandemic decimated peoples’ livelihoods. This gesture is the latest in the company's ongoing efforts to support its communities during this difficult time.

"During this unique moment in history, it's more necessary than ever to come together and support those in our global communities who have been directly impacted by the COVID-19 crisis," said Mark Breitbard, President and CEO of Banana Republic and Gap Inc. specialty brands. "Through our partnership with Delivering Good, we're committed to helping Canadians get back to work by providing clothing they can wear for interviews and in different work environments.”

THE GAP FOUNDATION IS DEDICATED TO HELPING THOSE IMPACTED BY COVID-19

The Gap Foundation also previously announced a $1 million USD donation to local, national, and international non-profit organizations to support underserved families during the COVID-19 crisis. The Gap Inc. and its affiliated brands — Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta, Intermix, Janie and Jack, and Hill City — are dedicated to supporting those in need for as long as it takes. The retailer also recently donated 20,000 reusable non-medical masks to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada — many of which kept its Clubhouses open and operational as a safe place for kids and families in underserved communities.

"By supporting Delivering Good, Gap (Canada) Inc. brands are helping men and women, including those facing poverty, homelessness, and job loss," said Delivering Good President & CEO Lisa Gurwitch. "This donation will have such a positive impact on men, women and disadvantaged young adults. This new apparel will help individuals and families trying to make ends meet during these difficult times.”

Delivering Good is a national charity focused on helping those who have been impacted by the challenges of COVID-19 and its uncertain aftermath. Delivering Good has over 35 years of crisis experience and a network of more than 700 community partners to distribute the donations to low-income and disadvantaged individuals and families.

"Since opening the first Old Navy store in Canada in 2001, we've been dedicated to supporting communities and delivering the democracy of style," said Nancy Green, President and CEO of Old Navy. "We recognize the need to serve families in our Canadian communities has never been greater than it is today. We're very proud to be partnering with Delivering Good and providing LIFE*SPIN with essential clothing during a time when they need it the most."

Gap Inc. — which was founded in 1969 — saw net sales of $16.4 billion in 2019’s fiscal year. The US-based retailer has been operating in Canada for more than 30 years, with its first store in Vancouver. Today its products are available for purchase in more than 90 countries worldwide, through company-operated stores, franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. 

Jessica Finch is a writer and editor based in Toronto. She holds a BA in English and Psychology and is a graduate of Ryerson University’s Publishing program. She has extensive managerial experience in the food service industry, and is interested in exploring innovations within this sector and other retail environments. Email: jessica@retail-insider.com

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