St. Mary Magdalene Picton community partnerships

Join with Russ Grant, community engagement coordinator for the diocese, as Russ Grant talks with Janet Howes of St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church in Picton and how a simple act of giving blossomed into a deeply rooted partnership between the church and Alternatives for Women, an organization supporting families fleeing abuse.

What began with a Christmas basket drive evolved into year-round donations of essentials like toiletries and linens. As the organization grew—eventually acquiring a residence to expand its services—the church responded by helping renovate a bedroom and offering space for healing programs like yoga and music therapy. Their holiday “Snowflake Program” brings additional cheer, with congregants gifting presents to children in need. The heart of their story? Lasting impact starts with listening, asking what’s truly needed, and building relationships rooted in mutual care.

View the video here on our Diocese of Ontario YouTube channel.