About Us

Built On Kindness.
Powered by Community.

Julia’s Old-Fashioned Christmas Charity is a Dunnville-based organization providing practical, year-round support to individuals and families in the community.

What began with a focus on helping during the holidays has grown into something steady and ongoing. Today, the charity operates a local food bank and thrift store, offering support people can access when they actually need it.

Who’s Behind It

At the centre of it all are Julia and Paul Marchese, whose commitment to the community has turned this into something much bigger than a seasonal effort.

Their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Julia has been recognized for her impact on the community, including being named Citizen of the Year, a reflection of the time, energy, and care that go into keeping this organization running.

But this isn’t a one or two-person operation. Behind the scenes, there are countless volunteers showing up, putting in the hours, and doing whatever needs to be done to keep things moving. And just as important are the donors who quietly support the work financially. No spotlight, no fanfare, just people choosing to help because they know it matters.

What We Do

The charity focuses on straightforward, practical support.

The food bank helps individuals and families access essential groceries, easing pressure during difficult times. The thrift store provides affordable clothing and household items, making everyday essentials more accessible while helping fund ongoing programs.

These services work together to create something reliable. For some, that might be a week’s worth of groceries. For others, it’s finding affordable clothing or basic household items without having to choose between essentials.

How It Works

Everything here is local.

There’s no large organization behind the scenes. The work is powered by donations, volunteers, and community support. What comes in goes right back out into Dunnville and the surrounding area.

It’s straightforward, and it keeps support close to home.

Who We Help

Support is available to anyone in the community who needs it.

Some people need short-term help. Others rely on it a little longer. Every situation is different, and the goal is to meet people where they are without adding pressure or judgment.

Looking Ahead

The work continues to grow based on what the community needs.

A major focus moving forward is the development of a warming and cooling centre in Dunnville. This would provide a safe, accessible space during extreme weather and offer another layer of support for those who need it.