The Times Colonist Christmas Fund Society’s mission is to assist those less fortunate, especially during the Christmas season. The Fund was started in 1956 to help families in need, and it collects donations to provide food, toys, and other forms of aid to people in the community. Every year, through the support of donors and the Times Colonist newspaper, the Fund works to make the holidays brighter for thousands of families on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

The organization's geographic focus is Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands in British Columbia. All fundraising activities and charitable giving are centred on supporting people who live in these local communities. The Fund works with many local partners to reach the people who need help the most and does not operate nationally or internationally.

Key program highlights include providing food hampers for families, toys for children, and support for community organizations that help those facing hardship. The Fund distributes its donations to about 60 local groups and agencies, ensuring that resources reach individuals and families quickly. It relies on partnerships, such as with the Sovereign Order of St. John, to make sure donations directly assist those in need while keeping administrative costs very low. Recent campaigns have raised over one million dollars each year, delivering widespread impact in the region.