Volunteer Day At Escabags

At Gildan, we believe that being a responsible partner goes beyond delivering high-quality apparel. It also means stepping up for people and communities in need. Recently, our team had the opportunity to do just that by volunteering with Escabags, a not-for-profit organisation providing vital support to victims fleeing domestic violence.

Escabags exists to provide escape bags — filled with survival essentials that someone might need if they have to leave an unsafe situation quickly. These bags are designed to meet immediate needs, offering a small sense of security and dignity at a time when everything else can feel uncertain.

During our volunteer day, the Gildan team came together to help pack these bags. Each one was filled with items many of us use daily without a second thought: laundry powder, pads, tampons, soap, shampoo, hand sanitiser, and even a pre-paid SIM card. These essentials might sound ordinary, but for someone leaving their home with nothing, they can make all the difference. They provide not just practical support, but also reassurance that help is available right away.

Alongside the practical items, each bag also contained something more personal — a handwritten message of hope. Our team members took time to write short notes, offering words of encouragement and reminding recipients that they are not alone. These simple gestures, while small, have the power to bring comfort in incredibly difficult moments.

For many of us, the experience was humbling. Packing each bag served as a reminder of how critical Escabags’ work is, and how important it is to support people who are rebuilding their lives in the face of hardship. It was a chance to see the tangible impact of community action, and to reflect on how meaningful even the smallest contributions can be when they’re given at the right time.

We’re proud to have contributed to Escabags’ mission and grateful for the opportunity to get involved. Partnerships like these reflect Gildan’s commitment to operate with respect for the planet, people and communities.

Hear directly from our CEO about this partnership, and why packing these bags made its impact feel so real here.