Christmas Joy

by SalvationArmy.ca
Categories: Feature
Share:

As Christmas approached, so did heartache for Milly. Part-time employment wasn’t making ends meet. Savings were quickly dwindling and she couldn’t provide her children even the simplest of Christmas celebrations.

In the spring of 2009, Milly, her husband Robin, and their three sons left a stable life in the Middle East. “We hadn’t planned to migrate to Canada,” says Milly, “but a door opened. It meant we could offer our boys educational opportunities they would otherwise not receive.”

When Milly landed on Canadian soil she soon discovered differences between ‘home’ and a ‘foreign’ country. She saw snow for the first time, was delighted at the scenic beauty that came with the change of seasons, and was fascinated with the concept of thrift stores, recycling programs and garage sales.

As Milly and Robin settled into their new environment they quickly learned that the key to finding employment in their fields, human resources and commerce, hinged on acquiring ‘Canadian work experience’. Meanwhile, they secured part-time jobs, but their income barely paid the bills.

Then, with Christmas just around the corner, what once was a season of celebration and giving for Milly and her family was now one filled with immense stress. “Due to our financial situation we worried about buying gifts for our children,” says Milly.

Before long an acquaintance emailed Milly a flyer about the local Salvation Army Christmas assistance program. Here, new toys were distributed to children who would wake up on Christmas morning with little or nothing under the tree.

“We had never been given anything for free,” says Milly. “We were so grateful. The warmth and kindness of the staff quickly put us at ease. They treated us with dignity and respect. As new immigrants, that made a huge impact on us.”
Practical help for Milly and her family continued throughout the year. “I call it the Army of compassion,” continues Milly. “It’s good to know you aren’t alone during the tough times.”

How you can help
• Donate at one of nearly 2,000 kettles located across Canada.
• Visit FilltheKettle.com. Using Google Maps technology, you can make a secure online donation to individual kettles in your community.
• Donate at www.SalvationArmy.ca.
• Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769)
• Donations can be mailed to The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto, ON M4H 1P4, or dropped off at your local Salvation Army.
• Text HOPE to 45678 from most mobile carriers in Canada. A $5 will be added to your monthly mobile bill.
It is through the support of the public that The Salvation Army is able to continue to strengthen its programs, and develop new and innovative services.