Christmas Support Gives Young Family Joy and Companionship

Anna (not her real name) and her husband have lived in Canada for a few years. Since arriving, they started a family and have been working toward achieving their goals. While they have enjoyed the experience of a new life, they have no other family here, which sometimes poses financial challenges, especially during holidays such as Christmas.

The family currently lives in Maple Ridge, B.C. Anna’s husband works while she is a stay-at-home mom caring for their son.

With a limited household income, Anna turned to The Salvation Army, which has walked alongside her during motherhood, providing her with clothing support, diapers, wipes and many other baby items.

“The first time I got pregnant, I was worried about having no close friends and facing the pregnancy alone. The Salvation Army helped, especially during Christmas,” Anna shares.

Finding Holiday Joy

Christmas assistance has been special for Anna. The family has received toys for her son, presents for both her and her husband, as well as gift cards for groceries.

“The gift cards are very helpful because during the holidays I’ve noticed prices go up,” Anna says. “The Christmas program is amazing for us because our son’s birthday is also in December, so it allows us to give him more presents.”

Although Anna admits that giving up Christmas gifts would be an option if they ever found themselves in a tough financial position, she says the Army’s support allows them the flexibility to afford both presents and a nice Christmas dinner.

For families accessing Christmas assistance at The Salvation Army in Maple Ridge, the experience is a unique one. The staff set up their office as a temporary “Christmas Village”, where parents can pick and choose gifts for their children.

Anna feels welcomed by the staff and volunteers every time she visits.

“There is no rush and no other people around. I had time to think about what I could get. The space is clean and organized,” she says. 

Friends That Feel Like Family

Having experienced Christmas with The Salvation Army for a few years now, Anna is amazed by the compassionate members of the community who support the organization and make the holidays special for everyone.

“When I hear about people volunteering or donating to The Salvation Army, I feel thankful. If it wasn’t for their kind hearts, we would not be able to have all this.”

As for The Salvation Army as a whole, Anna considers them like a family.

“I can always talk to the staff and they have a big heart. I feel like I have another little family here.”

By Juan Romero