Bison and Brands for Canada: Making a Difference One Donation at a Time 

Founded in 1991, Brands for Canada is a registered charity on a mission to “create a sustainable world where surplus goods are purposefully used to eliminate poverty and inequality.” Headquartered in Toronto, the organization connects donors with those in need across Canada, repurposing new, high-end donations that might otherwise end up in landfills or be incinerated. Instead, these goods find a second life with those who need them most—from refugees and newcomers to the homeless and remote Indigenous communities. 

“It’s been a truly humbling experience to be part of a team that works tirelessly to make a difference, and none of this would be possible without the support of people and organizations like Bison,” says Danny Boyko, Manitoba Director of Operations, Brands for Canada and Sergeant with the Winnipeg Police Service. 

In 2013, the first expansion out of Ontario was launched in Manitoba. However, as they scaled up operations, they quickly faced a logistical challenge. How could they effectively get those large volumes of donations to Manitoba, especially when most of their work was volunteer-based? 

Streamlining the Process with Bison 

Danny’s goal was always to remain “Lean & Mean”—putting the majority of the resources received directly back into Manitoba communities in need. Whether it was jackets for those freezing on the streets of Winnipeg, clothes for single parents struggling to make ends meet, or supplies for remote Indigenous communities, they adapted quickly to meet changing needs. But despite best efforts, there was a major bottleneck: the volume of donations. Without a consistent way to handle the increasing amount of supplies from Toronto, the ability to distribute goods was limited. In the busy trucking industry, deliveries were often random and sporadic, and without storage space to handle 20+ skids at a time, they quickly hit a ceiling. 

Enter Dave Fulawka, Associate Vice President of Network Analytics & Development at Bison, who recognized the challenge and stepped in to streamline the delivery process. Allowing them to receive and distribute donations across Manitoba efficiently. This partnership opened the door to the possibility of making a significant impact, and the results have been extraordinary. 

The Power of Partnership: $36 Million in Donations 

Since 2016, Bison has helped Brands for Canada receive and distribute over $36 million worth of donations to communities in need across Manitoba. Through this partnership, they have fulfilled thousands of requests for essential items like clothing, food, and self-care products. Some of the highlights include: 

• 41 skids delivered just in time for the Holiday Season, with items like clothes, winter jackets, toys, and self-care products—worth over $1.5 million (retail). 
• 30,000 bottles of vitamin water were sent to Shoal Lake 40 before they had access to clean drinking water. 
• $180,000 in new, high-end winter jackets for those braving Manitoba’s harsh winters. 
• 1000 pairs of kids’ sneakers and 700 pairs of Nike high-end running shoes for children in need. 
• 4600 high-end men’s suits, helping individuals prepare for job interviews. 

“Without Bison’s efficiency, skill, and empathy, none of this would have been possible. Their support has enabled us to transform lives across Manitoba in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Bison has created a network of support that allows us to get the right resources into the right hands at the right time,” says Danny Boyko. 

A New Kind of Charity: Giving with Dignity 

One of the most remarkable things about Brands for Canada is its ability to offer new, high-end goods, not just gently used items. They aim to give people what they would want for themselves—clothes that are fresh, functional, and suitable for work or daily life. It’s about providing people with dignity, self-esteem, and the opportunity to present themselves in a way that empowers them. From job interviews to the holidays, they bring a store to those in need without any price tags attached. 

A Grateful Volunteer 

“I am endlessly grateful to Bison, its leadership, and its team for their generosity, support, and commitment to helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands across Manitoba. With their help, we’ve gotten items into the hands of those who need them most, whether they are homeless, refugees, newcomers, or struggling families. 

Many organizations and individuals are working hard to eliminate poverty and inequality, but Bison stands out as a true partner. Their ability to cut through red tape, act with compassion, and provide critical resources has been a game-changer for us. 

Reflecting on our accomplishments, I’m astounded by the $36 million and counting that Bison has helped us distribute. The difference we’ve made is undeniable—and I do not doubt that this partnership will continue to change lives for years to come.  Thank you, Bison, for all that you do. You get it, and you act with speed and compassion. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of so many in need.”