Salvation Army in North York Surrounds Grandmother Raising 5 Children with Love and Support

It’s just a few days before Christmas and Karen, who is raising her five grandchildren, knows there will be a Christmas turkey dinner with all the trimmings and gifts under the tree, because of the support from The Salvation Army.

Karen worked for many years as an executive assistant until her daughter got very ill.  She lost her daughter in 2015 to breast cancer, leaving Karen to raise her five grandchildren, aged 8, 9, 12, 14 and 19, on her own.  Karen is now living with painful chronic medical conditions that keep her from being able to work.  With an income of under $15,000 it’s impossible to pay the rent and feed the family.

“The Ontario Disability Support Program doesn’t even cover my rent. It’s very difficult to provide basic things for the children like food and warm clothes,” said Karen. “The Salvation Army has been amazing, and they have been so helpful in providing whatever we need.”

Salvation Army Yorkminster Citadel Community and Family Services Manager Liz Colley says she first met the family 2 years ago.  Liz says Karen visits The Salvation Army Food Bank once a month.

“There have been times when things are really tough and I say that if she needs to come more often, then do so, she’s certainly appreciative of that. By the time she pays her rent and bills, it’s pretty hard, and as the kids get older, the expenses increase,” Liz says.

Karen says she has been trying to give back by volunteering at a Christmas Kettle for short periods of time when she is able.

“I don’t like all the taking so I did the Christmas Kettle for 2 hours on Monday. I feel better giving back. I was always a giver,” said Karen. “It’s embarrassing asking for help, but I would do anything for these kids.”

She says the children now attend Salvation Army Church services, have joined the choir and the band as well as youth group on Sundays where they have friends and play games.

Liz says two of the children attend the Citadel’s Music Academy and performed this December with the Yorkminster Singing Company at The Salvation Army’s Christmas gala concert at Roy Thompson Hall in Toronto.

“There are no costs associated with any of the music lessons or programs. There is so much support there and the kids love going; it’s not like I have to drag them.  Sometimes church is a place where I feel close to my daughter. The youngest will sometimes cry for mommy during the songs. It’s a place where they can grieve.”

Three of the children also attended Salvation Army Summer Camp, where they got the full outdoor experience something she would not normally be able to afford. “They loved it and want to go back, it’s a blessing and something to look forward to,” said Karen.

“I praise everything they have done for us emotionally and spiritually. I feel like I have community and have somewhere to go. Just talking to people is wonderful. It’s great to have someone to talk to,” said Karen.

To support The Salvation Army, you can donate to a red Christmas Kettles in shopping areas around the city until Saturday evening or online at www.salvationarmy.ca or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

By: Caroline Franks