Celebrating 25 Years of The Hope in the City Breakfast
The 25th Annual Hope in the City Breakfast presented by Craftsman Collision is just around the corner, marking a significant milestone for The Salvation Army and the thousands of supporters whose generosity has helped make the event a lasting force for good across British Columbia.
What began in 2002 as a bold vision, championed by Thomas Skidmore, former Chair of The Greater Vancouver Advisory Board, and Captain John Murray, former Divisional Secretary for Public Relations, has grown into one of The Salvation Army’s premier fundraising events. For 25 years, Hope in the City has brought together business leaders, philanthropists, community advocates and compassionate individuals who share a commitment to creating brighter futures for those facing hardship. The event has welcomed more than 20,000 attendees over its history, building a community of supporters dedicated to creating lasting change.
Beyond the inspiring stories and meaningful connections, the event continues to have a tangible impact. Last year alone, the Hope in the City Breakfast raised more than $378,000 to support The Salvation Army’s programs and services, helping provide hope and practical assistance to individuals and families across British Columbia.
“For 25 years, Hope in the City has been more than a fundraiser. It’s been a meaningful Christmas tradition. A moment where community, compassion and action all come together to make a real difference.”
– Lieut.-Colonel John Murray, Former Territorial Secretary for Communications
Over the years, the event has welcomed an impressive roster of speakers who have inspired audiences through stories of resilience, leadership and service. Guests have heard from Olympic gold medalists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den star Arlene Dickinson and renowned sports broadcaster and mental health advocate Micheal Landsberg and many other influential voices who have challenged, motivated and encouraged attendees to make a difference in their communities. For more than 20 editions of the breakfast, the late Peter Legge served as host, bringing his signature warmth, wit and storytelling to the event and helping shape it into the cherished tradition it is today.
While the event is known for its inspiring speakers, its greatest impact can be measured through the lives changed because of the generosity it inspires. Funds raised through Hope in the City help support critical Salvation Army programs and services across British Columbia, including food assistance, emergency shelter, addiction recovery, family services, emergency disaster response and other supports that help individuals and families navigate difficult circumstances.
Each year, the event also recognizes a Hero for Hope, celebrating an individual whose strength, perseverance, and transformation reflect the impact of The Salvation Army’s work. By sharing their story, attendees gain a powerful and personal reminder of how community support can change lives and create lasting hope. Through these stories and the generosity they inspire, Hope in the City continues to make a meaningful difference in communities.
Just as importantly, the breakfast has united supporters by a shared belief that everyone deserves hope, dignity and the opportunity to thrive. Year after year, sponsors, donors, volunteers and guests have come together to help address some of our communities’ most pressing challenges and ensure support is available when and where it is needed most.
As we celebrate 25 years of Hope in the City, we reflect on the remarkable impact made possible through the dedication of our supporters. Together, we have helped transform lives, strengthen communities and offer hope to countless individuals and families. We look forward to continuing that legacy for years to come.
We hope you can join us at the 25th Annual Hope in the City Breakfast, for event details, tickets and sponsorship information please visit hopeinthecity.ca/vancouver
By: Julianna Acosta