Rain or Shine: Tepi Hughes Brings Heart and Hope to Victoria’s Christmas Kettles
When you encounter Tepi Hughes at her Christmas kettle outside London Drugs, you’re immediately struck by her warm smile and genuine enthusiasm. Rain or shine, snow or wind, she’s there—bundled up in layers, bell in hand, greeting every passerby with a cheerful “Merry Christmas!”
“Don’t be afraid to do it. Get out there and do your kettle!”
“It’s raining and snowing and blowing,” Tepi laughs when describing a typical day at her kettle. “You wear lots of warm clothes, make sure your feet are warm, and keep your whole body comfortable. Rain or shine, that’s right!”
A Journey of Resilience
Tepi’s story is one of remarkable resilience and determination. Adopted from Bangladesh in 1974 when she was just 11 or 12 years old, she later lost her vision due to smallpox complications. Despite multiple surgeries, including corneal transplants, the damage to her eyes was extensive.
“I can see shapes and objects, but it’s really hard for me to focus,” she explains matter-of-factly. “But that doesn’t stop me from doing kettles or living my life. I’m very independent.”
And independent, she is. You’ll often see Tepi navigating Victoria on public transit, walking confidently through the community, and bringing her positive energy wherever she goes.
The Heart of Giving
What drew this 65-year-old volunteer to the Christmas Kettle Campaign over six years ago? The answer is beautifully simple: “It helps The Salvation Army and lots of people.”
When Tepi moved from Ladysmith to Victoria, she heard about the kettle program and was immediately interested. “I wanted to help, and one of the agencies talked to me about doing kettles. I said, ‘Sure, I was open to it.’ The first time I did an eight-hour shift, I really enjoyed it.”
Her approach at the kettle is genuine and welcoming. “I smile at people and tell them they can put $5 or $10 or $20 for donation,” she says. “I wish them a Merry Christmas. Sometimes I sing and dance—whichever feels right!”
More Than Just Volunteering
For Tepi, Christmas kettles represent something deeper than seasonal volunteering. “Christmas is that time of year for people to give, and for charities to help out homeless people or other people needing The Salvation Army’s help,” she reflects.
Her involvement with The Salvation Army extends beyond kettle season. She has also volunteered with community services, helping prepare tea towels and washcloths, and has assisted with food processing to support those in need throughout the community. “People touch my heart by giving,” Tepi shares.
“Sometimes people ask questions and I try to answer them, but my heart goes out to all these people who need help.”
A Message of Encouragement
What keeps Tepi coming back year after year? “I like helping The Salvation Army, and I like it because people are friendly towards me. I really enjoy being around people.”
Her advice for potential volunteers is both practical and encouraging: “Don’t be afraid to do it. Get out there and do your kettle!” She emphasizes the rewarding nature of the work.
The impact on her own life has been profound. “It touched my heart the first time I heard about it,” she says. “I never had done kettle before, but I really enjoy doing it.”
The Difference One Person Makes
Tepi’s presence at her kettle demonstrates how one person’s commitment can make a significant difference in the community. Her visual impairment hasn’t limited her perspective—instead, it’s expanded her understanding of how important it is to support others facing challenges.
“It’s very important that other people can help those with conditions like mine,” she explains, showing how her personal experience drives her passion for giving back.
As the Christmas season approaches, you might encounter Tepi at her kettle, bundled up against the Victoria weather, sharing her infectious smile and holiday spirit. Her dedication reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas lies not in what we receive, but in what we give—and sometimes, the greatest gift is simply showing up, rain or shine.
Want to volunteer at a kettle in your area or help during the Christmas season? Find out more at salvationarmy.ca/volunteer.
By Sipili Molia