North Vancouver’s Santa Hank Retires After 17 Years of Service

Hank Brennan, affectionately known as “Santa Hank,” has stepped down after 17 years of dedicated service to the homeless community in North Vancouver. His journey began in 2008 with a unique plan to fund a vacation. Brennan, a videographer and building manager, started collecting bottles and cans to finance a cruise to Alaska. This endeavor took nearly two years, but upon returning home, he felt a strong desire to continue his recycling efforts for a greater purpose.

Brennan established Hank’s Christmas Glitter, a charity that converts refunds from recyclables into gift cards for those in need. He and his volunteers operated a mobile collection service, driving around in Christmas-themed minivans to gather recyclables. The proceeds funded gift cards for local restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores, totaling over $400,000 distributed to individuals experiencing homelessness.

The latest official count indicated that 168 individuals were homeless in the North Shore area, although advocates believe the actual figure may exceed 400. Over the years, Brennan became a familiar and friendly presence for many, forging bonds with those living on the streets. His interactions often included heartfelt conversations, where he aimed to provide not just material support but also a sense of companionship.

Brennan shared that his commitment stemmed from a love for Christmas. “I thought, well, who better to put a face to this charity than Santa? Why can’t Santa do this?” he explained. He often recounted stories of emotional encounters, including one poignant moment when he handed a stocking to a man who had never received such kindness before. “He was standing there holding the stocking the same way that a mother holds her infant… and these tears were coming down off his face,” Brennan recalled.

Recognition for Brennan’s efforts came from various quarters, including an invitation from North Vancouver MP Jonathan Wilkinson to receive a Canada 150 pin, acknowledging his contributions to the community. Despite this recognition, Brennan emphasized that his work was never about accolades but about making a difference in people’s lives. “I always tell people you and I are not going to save the world… But we can always help the few around us,” he stated.

As Brennan retires, he reflects on the support he received throughout his journey. His younger brother, Steve, who has experienced addiction and homelessness, played a key role as his “head elf.” Together with other volunteers, they helped collect recyclables and distribute assistance. The community rallied behind Brennan, raising over $25,000 for a new minivan when his old vehicle, which had logged more than 410,000 kilometers, began to fail.

After 17 years of tireless service, Brennan decided to wind down operations as the charity faced the end of its lease at a property in Edgemont Village. At the age of 73, he felt it was time to step back. “I sat back and had a little chat with myself… maybe the timing of this is good now,” he noted.

On his first official day of retirement, Brennan chose to spend the day fishing, symbolizing a new chapter in his life. While he has plans for activities in his retirement, he acknowledges the impact of his absence on the community. Local residents, like Sharon Henwood, expressed gratitude, stating, “He’s just really thoughtful and always there for people, and he never asks or expects anything in return.”

Brennan’s influence extended beyond material gifts. His ability to connect with others and offer genuine support earned him lasting friendships, including with individuals like Mike Sikora, who first met Brennan while panhandling. Sikora described Brennan as someone who makes him feel valued, sharing, “He’s a man that makes me feel like a human being. You know, no judgments at all.”

Although Brennan is stepping away from his charitable work, he remains deeply concerned about the ongoing housing crisis. He refrains from discussing political aspects but firmly believes that “no one should be homeless and, especially, hungry.” His final message emphasizes the importance of compassion, urging the community to acknowledge those in need: “It all starts with a little bit of respect… Just to say ‘Hello, how was your day?’ makes them feel better that somebody acknowledged them.”

As Brennan embarks on this new phase of life, the legacy of Santa Hank will continue to resonate in North Vancouver, serving as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.