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

Hank Brennan, known affectionately as “Santa Hank,” has officially retired after dedicating 17 years to serving the homeless community in North Vancouver. What began in 2008 as a personal quest to fund a vacation has transformed into a heartfelt mission that has provided over $400,000 in gift cards to those in need.

Brennan, a videographer and building manager, initially started collecting bottles and cans to finance a cruise to Alaska. Upon returning home, he felt a strong urge to continue his recycling efforts for a greater cause. “I realized I’m not doing [a cruise] again, and if I stop, then what a waste,” he said. This realization led to the creation of Hank’s Christmas Glitter, a charity that converts recycling refunds into meaningful gifts for individuals experiencing homelessness.

The operation was akin to a community collection service. Brennan and his volunteers traversed various neighborhoods in custom-wrapped Christmas-themed minivans, gathering recyclables and transporting them to what they affectionately called “Santa’s Workshop” in Edgemont Village. There, they sorted the items and arranged for their return, using the proceeds to purchase gift cards from local restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores.

The latest official homeless count indicated that there were 168 individuals without fixed addresses on the North Shore, although advocates believe the actual number may exceed 400. Over the years, Brennan established personal connections with many of these individuals, often knowing them by name. He described how these interactions provided comfort and companionship, stating, “They could see I was a friendly voice. They weren’t nervous about anything.”

Brennan’s dedication extended beyond mere transactions. He recalled heartwarming moments that underscored the impact of his work, such as a Christmas when he distributed stockings filled with treats to those waiting outside a bottle depot. One recipient, moved to tears, expressed gratitude, stating, “Nobody’s ever done this for me before.”

Recognized for his contributions, Brennan received a Canada 150 pin from North Vancouver MP Jonathan Wilkinson, acknowledging community heroes. Despite the accolades, Brennan remained humble, emphasizing that his work was never about recognition. “It was the big picture,” he explained. “I never called it work. None of us did, not when you enjoy doing what you do.”

As Santa Hank, Brennan was supported by a network of dedicated individuals, including his younger brother and “head elf,” Steve, who has his own history of overcoming addiction and homelessness. The community rallied behind Brennan, raising over $25,000 for a new minivan when his original vehicle, a 1998 Chrysler Grand Voyager, began to fail after more than 410,000 kilometers.

After 17 years of tireless efforts, Brennan announced that he would wind down operations. The charity had been operating out of a house in Edgemont, which would soon be redeveloped. While exploring options to continue his work, Brennan ultimately decided it was time to step back. “You’re going to be 73 this year. You’re in good health,” he reasoned, reflecting on the timing of his retirement.

On July 1, 2023, Canada Day, Brennan embraced his first day of retirement, setting out to enjoy activities he had long postponed. He humorously described maintaining two lists: one for sunny day activities and another for rainy days, indicating that he has no plans to be bored.

Brennan’s absence will be deeply felt within the community. Residents like Sharon Henwood, who benefited from his kindness, expressed their gratitude for his thoughtful gestures. “He’s just really thoughtful and always there for people,” she said.

Another former recipient, Mike Sikora, shared how Brennan’s generosity had a lasting impact on his life. After receiving a Christmas basket from Brennan while panhandling in 2016, Sikora went on to become friends with him. “He’s a man that makes me feel like a human being,” Sikora stated, highlighting Brennan’s non-judgmental approach.

While Brennan refrained from discussing the broader housing crisis, he firmly stated, “No one should be homeless and, especially, hungry. Nobody.” His enduring wish is for the community to remember that even small acts of kindness can have profound effects. “It all starts with a little bit of respect,” he advised, reminding everyone that a simple greeting can uplift those who feel invisible.

As “Santa Hank” retires, the legacy of his compassionate work will resonate in North Vancouver, inspiring others to continue the spirit of giving that he so passionately embodied.