In May 2026, CN launched Railroaders for Change, its new community giving initiative focused on homelessness prevention. Backed by a $100 million CAD commitment over the next 10 years, the initiative will support non-profit organizations working on early intervention and sustainable solutions, while helping break down stigma, strengthen community connections and advance research.
“CN railroaders have always stepped up to support the communities where we live and work. Railroaders for Change reflects that spirit of service and action,” says Tracy Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer, CN. “Across our network, our employees are helping drive meaningful change.”
Employees have already been bringing that commitment to life at events in Homewood, Winnipeg and Montreal, where CN railroaders connected with community organizations, learned more about the realities of homelessness for various groups such as women, Indigenous peoples and youths, and discovered how their own time, skills and involvement can make a difference.
Video recap of the launch events
The events also celebrated significant investments in local communities. In Homewood, CN announced three gifts of US $250,000 to organizations helping people reconnect to safe and permanent housing, while two Winnipeg organizations each received $250,000 to support at-risk or unhoused individuals and families. In Montreal, CN announced $1 million in gifts to four organizations to support people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
At each event, interactive activities and conversations with community partners helped employees deepen their understanding of the issue. Railroaders also tied knots into a symbolic safety net, representing their shared commitment to creating communities where everyone belongs.
For Kernie Pierre, Senior Representative, Service, who moderated the Montreal panel discussion, the experience left a lasting impression. “One message that stayed with me throughout the event was ‘homelessness is a human circumstance. Every person deserves dignity, compassion, and the opportunity to find their way home.’ I will carry that with me for a long time.”
Through Railroaders for Change, CN is turning awareness into action and building on its commitment to safer, stronger and more compassionate communities – helping create a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.
Railroaders for Change in action
Organizations looking for funding
Organizations working to prevent homelessness are encouraged to apply for support through CN Railroaders for Change.
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