Volunteer Shares How Giving Back Changed Her Life

Philomena is one of 136,000 volunteers across Canada who dedicate their time to helping people through the work of The Salvation Army.

“I started volunteering at The Salvation Army 14 years ago,” says Philomena. “I had to quit my full-time job as a housekeeper because of Fibromyalgia―chronic muscle pain and tender points, fatigue and sleep problems. I could set my own hours at the food bank. If I ached, I could sit. If I had pain, I could leave.

“Every Tuesday I volunteer in the food bank handing out food. When I first started, I worked in the back checking expiry dates on cans, unpacking boxes and stocking shelves. One day I was asked if I would help give out food at the front. “I can do that,” I thought to myself.

“Sometimes clients look so sad. I’m glad that there is still something in life I can do to help others.

“Volunteering gets me going, keeps me on my feet and keeps me from being bedridden. It is the best thing that ever happened to me.”