Longtime Client Appreciates The Salvation Army’s Ongoing Support
Lisa (not her real name) suffered an injury over a decade ago that affected her ability to work. As someone who likes to be active and driven, the change was emotionally and financially challenging for her.
“I got injured and, despite trying to work, I couldn’t earn enough to support myself,” Lisa says. “I ended up having to apply for disability. Everything was cheaper back then, so I managed to get by for a while living off credit cards.”
Things changed as the cost of living rose. Her income was not enough to cover her basic needs, and Lisa turned to The Salvation Army in Prince George, B.C., for help.
“It’s been life-changing. It took such a load off.”
“It was super stressful, so I came to The Salvation Army,” Lisa shares. “It’s been life-changing. It took such a load off. I’ve been coming here on and off for about seven years.”
Most of the support Lisa received was from the food bank. She chose The Salvation Army because she values her health and found its food options to be the best available.
“You get a little more freedom of choice here,” Lisa explains. “There have been people who’ve checked to see if they had gluten-free items for me.”
Lisa remembers feeling embarrassed the first time she ever visited the food bank; however, the staff eased her nerves by making her feel welcome from the start.
In addition to food support, Lisa has had conversations with the Army’s chaplain, which she says helped her emotionally. She also gave back by volunteering during a food distribution program during the pandemic.
“I liked volunteering because it was a way to give back,” Lisa adds.
“It gives people hope and helps them see a way out of difficult situations.”
The food bank’s support allows her to stretch her limited finances and live a little bit more comfortably. She’s been pursuing personal projects that could lead to additional sources of income. Whenever she has had extra funds, she has used that money to take courses to make that goal a reality.
As a long-time guest of The Salvation Army, Lisa understands the importance of supporting the organization, especially during uncertain economic times.
“It’s important to donate because it makes a difference in people’s lives,” she says. “It gives people hope and helps them see a way out of difficult situations.”
By Juan Romero
