Mary Dilly has spent a lifetime giving back to others, beginning at just 10 years old as a candy striper at SickKids Hospital.
Since moving to Burlington 33 years ago, she has become a pillar of the community, dedicating her time and energy to helping those in need.
When asked about her win Dilly shared, "I was absolutely surprised. My nominator was right here when the call came through. When I answered, I was confused and asked what it was about. Then I looked at her, and she was laughing—I was completely shocked."
For 15 years, Dilly single-handedly ran a Christmas Day Dinner at East Plains Church, ensuring that no one in the community had to spend Christmas alone.
She fundraised, recruited volunteers, organized and hosted the event, which grew to serve over 500 guests each year.
"Burlington has an incredible community spirit, unlike anywhere else I’ve lived. The level of involvement here is truly amazing," Dilly said.
The dinner featured carolling, Santa handing out gifts and a warm welcoming space for anyone in need of companionship on Christmas Day.
"I often think there are so many others doing more than I am who deserve it. But I love when people in the community are recognized — it shows others that they can make a difference too," Dilly said.
For the past four years, Dilly has also been helping women moving out of Halton Women’s Place and refugee families by donating furniture and household items that she receives from clients with her business Downsizing Solutions.
She stores these donations in a complimentary locker at Access Storage, ensuring families can furnish their homes at no cost.
"Some people cry when they see the furniture, overwhelmed with gratitude. I remember a little boy who saw a small 35-inch TV we had received as a donation. When I asked if he wanted it, he burst into tears—he’d never had a TV before. I told his mom through an interpreter that he could have it for his own room. Moments like that are unforgettable," Dilly shared.
Meeting them at the locker, she tells them to “take what you want”, often bringing them to tears with her generosity.
"Whenever people come to the locker, if I don’t have it, I’ll find it. If I can’t get it from a client, I post on Facebook and within minutes people respond. Opening that locker and watching people find what they need feels like Christmas," expressed Dilly.
When asked about her plans for the future Dilly said, "I’m not planning to change anything. As long as I have my business, I’ll keep donating furniture. It’s a lot of work, but I can’t stand the thought of people going without a bed when others have extra to give. Since most of my clients are seniors, there’s always something available. It’s fulfilling a need and reducing landfill waste—a win-win."
Even in extreme weather or on Christmas Day, Dilly is there, making sure families get what they need.
As an added bonus Dilly helps her clients feel better about donating their treasured items.
"It’s really hard for seniors to part with their belongings, especially dining room furniture. It holds memories of holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving. When we donate it to a family in need, and receive a photo of them gathered around the table, we send it to the original owner. They often cry, feeling comforted knowing their furniture is making a difference. It’s such a full-circle moment knowing your things are serving someone else," Dilly explained.
In addition to her hands-on volunteer work, Dilly serves on the Board of Directors for Carpenter Hospice and The Willow Foundation, continuing to make a lasting impact in Burlington.
Her selfless contributions have not gone unnoticed—she has received multiple community service awards, including the MP Karina Gould Community Volunteer Award, the Rotary Paul Harris Award and the City of Burlington Community Service Award.
"People who volunteer are always thinking about how they can help others. So when someone turns around and does something kind for you, it’s the best feeling in the world. I’m very grateful and it’s even more special because it was completely unexpected," Dilly said.
A true unsung hero, Mary Dilly’s kindness, resilience and unwavering dedication have touched countless lives, making her a deserving recipient of this year’s award.
This award is presented to an individual or group whose tireless work and/or volunteer efforts in our community seek to improve the lives of others. The recipient has created a positive impact in our community both now and for the future.
Congratulations, Mary!
