Salvation Army Supports Grieving Families During Christmas

Last year, Tonia Grandy faced significant challenges, including surgeries and the loss of her father, which affected her emotionally. As Christmas approached, Tonia received a comforting gesture from The Salvation Army—a bereavement package with treats and a special card.

“It had been such a hard time, and to have somebody reach out and show that they cared made me feel really good and happy. It touched my heart,” Tonia shares.

The Salvation Army in Garnish, N.L., has distributed bereavement packages each Christmas for the past 10 years. According to Laurie Senior, who coordinates the program, the idea was to show grieving families that they were not alone during the holidays—a time that tends to be particularly emotional for those dealing with a loss.

“We decided to follow up with families that have lost loved ones throughout this year.”

“A lot of times after the family loses a loved one, there is grieving during that first Christmas. We decided to follow up with families that have lost loved ones throughout this year and let them know that someone is still thinking about them since we know that this time of year is hard for them,” Laurie says.

The community The Salvation Army in Garnish serves is small. This makes it easier for volunteers who prepare the packages to identify potential families and individuals who should receive a comforting gift.

“We package it up beautifully and attach a card letting them know that someone cares, that someone is thinking about them during this time. It doesn’t matter if they’re affiliated with our church,” Laurie adds.

For Tonia, this was the case. Although she has family members that attend a Salvation Army church, she attends a different congregation. For this reason, the bereavement package came as a surprise.

“We package it up beautifully and attach a card letting them know that someone cares.”

“I wasn’t expecting to get anything. I didn’t know that they even knew what was going on in my life. Knowing that people are keeping an eye out and that they reach out when you are going through such a hard time is a great thing,” Tonia says. The connection inspired Tonia to support The Salvation Army during Christmas time.

“I donated last year, and I’ll probably donate this year again. I want to be able to give back to The Salvation Army because they touched me.”

This Christmas season, The Salvation Army in Garnish is preparing to deliver up to 40 bereavement packages to the community. When you support The Salvation Army you help ensure that everyone can enjoy a happy and fulfilling holiday season.

By Juan Romero