Why One Woman is Donating Her Time to The Salvation Army This Christmas

In 2021, Kelley Sherin moved to Victoria, B.C., to take care of her nephew Jordon, 18, who has diverse abilities. Jordon had been moving from home to home in previous years, living in different countries. Kelley felt Jordon needed stability for his wellness and became his primary caregiver and parent.

When Kelley arrived in Victoria, she spent most of her money finding housing and getting it furnished for Jordon. Soon after, she faced financial troubles that would make it hard to put food on the table.

“They offered me food vouchers, they gave me vouchers for clothing, they helped me get shoes for Jordon for school. They were a godsend.”

“I had no fresh food or anything like that. I had four cans of soup. It was not sustainable, so I went looking for food,” Kelley said.

Knowing of The Salvation Army’s work, Kelley turned to the Victoria Citadel for assistance.

“I didn’t realize I was so troubled until they started asking me questions. I opened up honestly about what I needed and my situation. They offered me food vouchers, they gave me vouchers for clothing, they helped me get shoes for Jordon for school. They were a godsend,” Kelley shared. “The staff at The Salvation Army are truly genuine and kind giving people.”

As time went on, Kelley and Jordon began attending church and started building relationships with the staff at the Victoria Citadel. This opened the doors for Kelley to volunteer for The Salvation Army and found this to be a great opportunity to give back.

Kelley finds that her favourite time of the year to volunteer is during Christmas, ringing bells for the Christmas Kettle Campaign.

“The kettle is the best part. When I smile, I get that smile back, especially with little children. Oh my gosh, they’re so curious. They hear the bells, they stare at you and when you wave at them they light up like a Christmas tree. It’s the best,” Kelley added.

She also says that during her shifts she enjoys hearing people’s stories of how The Salvation Army helped them.

Currently, Kelley is taking on daily kettle shifts to help the Army as much as she can. She finds the experience rewarding, and she says it also gives her a bit of a break from her daily life as a full-time caretaker to Jordon.

“Volunteering helps you give back and regain that sense that you can give back.”

This year, Kelley decided to let Jordan experience what a kettle shift would be like. They sang Christmas carols and collected donations from people who passed by them.

“It’s a good example for Jordon,” Kelley said.

As the campaign continues, Kelley encourages people in the community to volunteer for the cause. She believes it’s a great opportunity for people to realize that they can make a difference for those in need.

“Volunteering helps you give back and regain that sense that you can give back, you can do good for the world.”

By Juan Romero