British Columbia Finance Minister Colin Hansen personally donates 100 shoes for children in need before announcing new budget

In trying economic times, British Columbia Finance Minister Colin Hansen has made a gesture that BC’s provincial government is committed to putting more resources into children and families.

Instead of purchasing himself a new pair of shoes—a pre-budget tradition for BC Finance Ministers—Colin Hansen decided to buck the trend and purchase 100 shoes for needy children from Sport Chek with a $4,000 donation (out of his own pocket) to The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army will distribute the shoes to children through their various Family Services centers located throughout the province.

“When Minister Hanson called and suggested his personal donation and the desired outcomes I was moved,” said Major Brian Venables of The Salvation Army. “In trying times to demonstrate reaching out to others in such a practical and meaningful way is inspiring for everyone.”

British Columbia has gained a reputation as Canada’s weakest link when it comes to child poverty, having the country’s highest child poverty rate according to First Call BC. Hansen assured reporters that there would be “additional dollars in the budget… for services for children and families.”

The Salvation Army would like to thank Hansen for his kind donation, and looks forward to further working with the BC government to provide hope for more families and children in need.