North Vancouver’s Santa Hank Retires After 17 Years of Charity Work

Hank Brennan, affectionately known as “Santa Hank,” has officially retired after dedicating **17 years** to helping the homeless in North Vancouver. What began as a personal project to fund a vacation evolved into a heartfelt charity, Hank’s Christmas Glitter, which has raised over **$400,000** in gift cards for those in need.

The journey started in **2008** when Brennan, a videographer and building manager, began collecting bottles and cans to finance an Alaskan cruise. Upon returning, he felt compelled to continue his recycling initiative and redirect the funds towards charitable efforts. “I realized I’m not doing [a cruise] again, and if I stop, then what a waste,” Brennan reflected. The charity quickly took on a festive theme, donning a red fleece and cap with white faux fur trim.

Brennan and his team of volunteers would drive through various neighborhoods in custom-wrapped Christmas-themed minivans, collecting recyclables. These efforts culminated in the establishment of “Santa’s Workshop” in **Edgemont Village**, where items were sorted for return. Proceeds were then used to purchase gift cards from local restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores, which Brennan hand-delivered to individuals experiencing homelessness.

According to the latest homeless count, there are **168 individuals** without fixed addresses on the North Shore, though advocates estimate the figure could be over **400**. Brennan has built personal connections with many of these individuals, often engaging them in conversation to understand how he could assist them. “They could see I was a friendly voice. They weren’t nervous about anything,” he noted. “And 98 percent of the time, the cards would do the trick.”

Brennan’s approach is rooted in compassion. He believes that while large-scale solutions to homelessness may be complex, small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. “You and I are not going to save the world,” he stated. “But we can always help the few around us.”

The emotional weight of the stories he has encountered over the years has not gone unnoticed. Brennan shared a particularly poignant memory from a Christmas event where he handed out stockings filled with treats. One recipient held the stocking as if it were a child, tears streaming down his face. “Nobody’s ever done this for me before,” the man said, leaving a lasting impression on Brennan.

Brennan’s contributions have garnered recognition, including an invitation from North Vancouver MP **Jonathan Wilkinson** to receive a **Canada 150 pin**, honoring those who enrich their communities. Despite the accolades, Brennan maintains that his work was never about recognition. “It was the big picture… passing those cards, putting them into somebody’s hands. That was going to make a difference in their day,” he said.

His charitable efforts were made possible by a supportive community. Brennan credited his younger brother, **Steve**, who has experienced homelessness himself, as his “head elf,” along with other dedicated volunteers. When his minivan, which had logged over **410,000 kilometers**, was in need of replacement, the community rallied together to raise over **$25,000**. The **Jim Pattison Group** also contributed by donating a second van.

After nearly two decades of tireless commitment, Brennan announced his retirement in light of the free lease for his workshop concluding this summer. At **73 years old**, he reflected on the well-deserved timing of his departure. “You’re in good health. You’ve got no aches or pains. Maybe the timing of this is good now,” he said.

Brennan spent his first day of retirement fishing on **Canada Day**, marking the beginning of a new chapter. He plans to fill his time with activities he had postponed over the years, emphasizing that he will never be bored. “I’ve got to say, for me, it all starts with a little bit of respect, because it really does go a long way,” he said, encouraging others to acknowledge those in need with simple gestures.

While his program may have concluded, the pressing issue of homelessness remains. Brennan refrains from delving into political discussions but asserts, “No one should be homeless and, especially, hungry. Nobody.” His message is clear: every small act of kindness counts.

As North Vancouver bids farewell to Santa Hank, the community recognizes the gap left by his absence. Local residents, including **Sharon Henwood** and **Mike Sikora**, have expressed gratitude for his unwavering support and compassion. Sikora, who received a Christmas basket from Brennan years ago, emphasized the importance of Brennan’s ability to connect with people on the street, fostering friendships devoid of judgment.

Brennan’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire acts of kindness throughout the community. He hopes that his approach to compassion will remind others that even the smallest gestures can make a significant difference.