How One Donor is Empowering High-Risk Parents and Their Children

At an early age, E. Neville Ward learned the importance of helping children caught in the grip of poverty to reach their full potential.

“My mother, Kathleen, was a Home Economics teacher who believed in the importance of nurturing children and youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds,” says Neville. “She witnessed first-hand how poverty affects a child’s capacity to learn. She was encouraged to see The Salvation Army at work in her small town giving hope to families in crisis. So, donating to The Salvation Army was a good fit for her.”

When Neville lost his mother in 2006 he wanted to ensure her commitment to the success of children and families would live on. He used a charitable bequest from his mother’s estate and some of his own funds to create an endowment where the interest is used for a specified purpose and the principal amount of the gift is invested for long-term growth.

“I trust the Army to use the donation wisely,” says Neville. “And I get personal joy from seeing children and families succeed.”

Donations at Work

“At The Salvation Army’s Bethany Hope Centre in Ottawa we serve marginalized, high-risk, youth who are pregnant and/or parenting. We work with them to overcome barriers that limit their capacity to fully function in society in healthy ways,” says Major Brenda Coles, Executive Director. “We help to build strength where they feel they need it most.”

“Funds from Neville’s endowment are creating real change in young parents and their families,” continues Coles. “Software for donated computers was purchased enabling parents to work towards their high school diploma at their own pace; and toys and crafts were bought for the play group that helps kids learn skills while they are having fun.”

But Neville’s generosity doesn’t end there. His cash donations make it possible for parents to pursue post-secondary education. Every year, children and their parents enjoy outings to places such as Saunders Farm where puppet shows, hayrides and jumping pillows allows everyone to take a deep breath and relax from the challenges of daily life.

“With support from donors such as Neville, dreams are becoming reality and life is a little easier,” says Coles.

“The Salvation Army needs more people like Neville.”