Helping Hands Society of Cochrane & Area

Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area
Neighbors Helping Neighbors—Because Community Matters

At Helping Hands, we believe in the power of community to lift each other up. As a grassroots, volunteer-driven charity based in Cochrane, Alberta, we serve residents of Cochrane and the surrounding area through innovative, practical, and compassionate programs that address some of the most pressing challenges facing our neighbours, especially seniors, isolated individuals, and those experiencing food insecurity.

Who We Are
Founded in 2008, Helping Hands remains a small but mighty organization, operating with just three full-time staff and a wide network of deeply committed volunteers. Despite our modest size, our impact is significant—and growing. We operate on the belief that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can transform lives.

Our work is rooted in local needs, powered by volunteerism, and driven by a deep commitment to dignity, inclusion, and practical help. Whether it’s providing a ride to a medical appointment, delivering a hot meal, restocking a free food shed, or helping someone shovel their driveway, our goal is simple: make sure no one in our community feels alone or left behind.

What We Do
Helping Hands runs more than 10 programs that are designed to be agile, people-first, and community-powered. Here are some of the ways we serve:

Food Rescue & Food Security
We rescue surplus, quality food from local grocers and redistribute it to residents via community sheds, hampers, and food support programs.
Since launching this program, we’ve rescued the equivalent of $2.3 million worth of food, preventing waste while feeding our neighbors.

Meals on Wheels
Hot, nutritious meals delivered directly to those who need them—particularly seniors and residents with limited mobility or health concerns.

Volunteer Drivers
We provide safe, friendly rides for seniors and other vulnerable community members to medical appointments, essential errands, and more. In 2024 alone, we completed 786 rides, and we’re on pace to exceed that this year.

Caring Neighbours
Volunteers help with light household tasks, wellness check-ins, and small repairs—supporting aging in place and reducing social isolation for seniors and individuals living with limited mobility.

Snow Helpers & Movers with Heart
From clearing driveways in winter to helping someone move during a difficult life transition, these services are lifelines for residents in need.

Emergency Support & Community Outreach
We offer support during personal crises—fires, job loss, illness—and help families and individuals navigate difficult transitions with dignity and care.

Why It Matters
Our programs reduce barriers, build trust, and strengthen the social fabric of our community. They directly support vulnerable seniors, working families, newcomers, and those experiencing temporary hardship. And behind every ride, meal, or food rescue delivery, there's a connection being built—often between people who would not have met otherwise.

We are particularly proud of the role we play in supporting healthy aging. Our programs help seniors stay in their homes longer, maintain independence, and feel seen and valued. In a time when isolation and food insecurity are on the rise, our work is more relevant than ever.

Our Impact
13,000+ volunteer hours in 2023 alone

$2.3 million in food rescued and redistributed

786 volunteer rides in 2024 (and counting)

168 Caring Neighbours requests fulfilled in 2024

Programs serving hundreds of seniors annually

Outreach and food support across Cochrane and surrounding rural areas

Why Support Us
Helping Hands thrives because of the support of people who care. Whether you’re a company looking to support meaningful, local impact; a team hoping to volunteer; or an individual wanting to make a difference—your support helps us continue to grow our programs and reach more people.

Financial gifts help us keep the lights on, gas in the van, and meals flowing. In-kind support and volunteer hours expand our reach and build real connections. Every contribution matters.

When you support Helping Hands, you’re not just giving—you’re joining. You’re becoming part of a compassionate, practical, and resilient network of people committed to lifting each other up.

Get Involved
Donate funds or food

Organize a volunteer group

Become a recurring donor

Sponsor a program

Help us raise awareness

Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area is proof that small organizations can have a big impact. We invite you to join us in building a stronger, more connected community—one act of kindness at a time.