Why Give This Christmas?
Three years ago, Doreen became a single parent to her newborn granddaughter, Tiffany, to save her from being placed in foster care. On a fixed income, Doreen has many financial challenges and has often been forced to choose rent over food. Now, with Christmas around the corner, Doreen wants nothing more than to give Tiffany the Christmas she deserves.
Born to drug-addicted parents, Tiffany tested positive for illegal drugs in her system. As a result, she was placed immediately in the custody of her paternal grandmother. “I didn’t know if I could do it again,” says Doreen of raising her second grandchild, “but I would do anything to protect Tiffany. She doesn’t deserve people who want her today and dump her tomorrow.”
“Raising your grandchild full-time can be rewarding but also challenging,” says Doreen. “At times you feel physically and emotionally drained, but don’t give up—there is support available.”
Children’s Aid, the courts, and Doreen herself, determined that it was best for everyone if Tiffany was in day care. Damaged before birth by her mother’s addiction Tiffany had developmental problems such as speech delay and difficulty interacting socially with other children.
“It is hard for me to leave Tiffany with anyone,” says Doreen. “The Salvation Army day care Scarborough, Ont., was different. We were welcomed with open arms and before the first day was over Tiffany was bouncing up and down with joy as she pointed me to crafts she had made. Her participation in day care has improved her speech (she doesn’t need speech classes anymore) and she is learning to share and take part in a social environment.”
“With help and support from The Salvation Army I feel human again,” says Doreen. “Having a place where I belong and feel strong is something I haven’t had in a long time.”
This Christmas Doreen and Tiffany will receive a Christmas hamper with all the fixings for a turkey dinner, and more. Tiffany will wake up with presents under the tree.
“Without The Salvation Army and its donors I’d have no dignity, no hope and no Christmas,” says Doreen. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
