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Many Torontonians who have been without power since the weekend will be spending the holidays in shelters set up across the city.

Labron lost his mom a few years ago and lives with his grandmother in a high-rise building that lost power and heat. She called 911 for help to get down the apartment stairs after two cold days. Police brought them to the Agincourt Community Center where the Red Cross has been operating a warming center.

Since the beginning of the year John Gallin has visited his local Red Cross branch in London, Ontario to donate his pocket change. Inspired during a first aid course, John decided his goal was to visit the branch every week to make his donation. In the past 12 months John has surpassed his goal of $100 and has donated almost $600 with a few weeks left still!

It's now been a little over a month since Typhoon Haiyan made landfall in the Philippines. As relief efforts continue, humanitarian operations are now moving into early recovery. The following infographic provides a look at how the Red Cross has contributed to providing emergency relief to those affected. 
The Canadian government is matching donations by individual Canadians for Typhoon Haiyan relief until December 23. 

Pictured above, the "Little Happy Gang" children's knitting club were helping to knit wool items for Canadian soldiers and the Canadian Red Cross. This photo was taken in 1940 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

After relocating in May, we officially celebrated the new Red Cross office in Grande Prairie on December 5.

'Tis the season to stuff stockings and wrap carefully selected gifts for our friends and loved ones. But did you know that you could also give the gift of preparedness this holiday? Some Red Crossers have put together  their favourite gift ideas:

Many Red Cross branches in Ontario have received their annual order of poinsettias. The poinsettias are delivered to local businesses and residents in exchange for donations. Volunteers from Kingston like Bob Willis assisted in sorting and delivering over 650 poinsettias. The holiday poinsettia campaign raises money to support local programs like disaster management and first aid.