North Vancouver’s ‘Santa Hank’ Retires After 17 Years of Giving

UPDATE: After an incredible 17 years of service, North Vancouver’s beloved ‘Santa Hank,’ also known as Hank Brennan, has officially retired, leaving a significant impact on the local homeless community. Brennan’s charity, Hank’s Christmas Glitter, has distributed over $400,000 in gift cards, changing lives for many on the streets.

Brennan began his charitable journey in 2008 after a personal vacation funding scheme turned into a mission to help those in need. Collecting bottles and cans to fund his cruise to Alaska, he realized the potential for making a difference right at home. “If I stop, then what a waste,” Brennan said, reflecting on his decision to continue his recycling efforts for charity.

Dressed in his iconic red fleece and Santa hat, Brennan and his dedicated volunteers collected recyclables throughout North Vancouver, particularly in Edgemont Village. The proceeds were transformed into gift cards for local restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores, which Brennan personally delivered to individuals experiencing homelessness.

According to the latest official homeless count, there are 168 individuals without a fixed address in North Vancouver, although advocates suggest the actual number may exceed 400. Brennan’s efforts provided not just material support but also a meaningful connection with those he served. “They could see I was a friendly voice… and I’d just have a little chat,” he shared.

Brennan’s work was not just a job; it was a passion. His approach to helping others was deeply personal, with countless stories of gratitude and friendship forged on the streets. “Nobody’s ever done this for me before,” one recipient of his kindness remarked, recalling a moment that moved Brennan immensely.

Despite the joy he brought to the community, Brennan decided to retire after learning that the charity’s operations would soon need to relocate. “I just said, ‘You know, Hank, you’re going to be 73 this year. Maybe the timing of this is good now,’” he explained. He officially stepped down on July 1, 2023, spending his first day of retirement fishing.

Brennan leaves behind a legacy that transcends the tangible gifts he provided. His commitment to compassion and community service has touched the lives of many, including individuals like Mike Sikora, who recalls their first encounter when Brennan gifted him a Christmas basket during a cold winter. “He’s a man that makes me feel like a human being,” Sikora said, expressing the profound impact Brennan had on his life.

Although Brennan is stepping back, he emphasizes that the ongoing housing crisis remains a critical issue. “No one should be homeless and, especially, hungry. Nobody,” he stated firmly. His wish for the community is simple yet powerful: “No act of compassion, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”

As North Vancouver bids farewell to ‘Santa Hank,’ the community reflects on his extraordinary contributions and the deep human connections he fostered. His absence will be felt, but his message of kindness and respect will continue to resonate, urging others to acknowledge and support those in need.

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