Food bank there until mom’s health returns
There are two things in Jennifer’s life that aren’t a stress: her kids.
True, children are — by definition — stressful. But when you compare Jennifer’s stress to the rest of us, the occasional meltdown or temper tantrum is nothing.
As Jennifer battles depression, anxiety and chronic pain — her husband George is a cancer survivor — her daughters are more inspiration than frustration.
“They love being kids,” she said. “They’re happy.” Jennifer can’t work right now and George is still recovering from cancer treatment last year; while he’s up and around, looking healthy, he’s only slowly been able to begin working more. It has brought them to the Central Okanagan Food Bank. They’re one family you can help this year by donating to Be an Angel.
In an average month, the food bank helps nearly 4,000 people, about 1,200 of them kids like Jennifer’s.
Donations are especially important at Christmastime.
The food bank helps by providing a Christmas hamper with the necessities for a special dinner, plus a few gifts for the family.
Jennifer’s daughters, ages five and six, are no different than most girls their age. “They both love doing crafts and they love to wear dresses.”
Thanks to the food bank, Jennifer and George can provide some of the things they need and want.
That’s why Jennifer says donating to Be an Angel is so important.
While she’s grateful for the help, she says relying on the food bank is temporary.
Jennifer said she hopes to find a doctor and get a diagnosis or treatment plan to help her overcome her barriers.
“There are no stereotypes of a person who comes in here,” she said. “Very regular, everyday people come in here. … It’s just a place to get some help during a difficult time.”
You can Be an Angel four ways: drop by The Daily Courier office 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to donate cash or by cheque, debit or credit card; use your credit card to donate online at KelownaDailyCourier.ca (click on the Be an Angel logo); make a contribution at any Valley First Credit Union branch; or use your credit card over the phone by calling The Daily Courier at 250470-0756.
All contributors will be recognized with their name in the paper, and all donors who give $20 or more will receive a tax receipt.