The Blessing of a Place to Call Home

 


 

 

Losing your job can be devastating. This was the reality for Shawn, a carpenter, who had suffered a serious injury to his hand. After having surgery and months of rehabilitation, Shawn was ready to work again. But this time, the economy had entered a downturn.

“I applied everywhere from Ontario to BC. I am here because of an economic downturn more than anything else,” Shawn explains. “Basically no one was hiring so I ended up losing everything. The apartment, everything.”

He found some contract work at last, but someone at the job site tested positive for COVID-19, putting Shawn and 200 others out of work. Hearing about The Mustard Seed, Shawn made his way over to the shelter where he was provided everything he needed to survive.

“Having a meal and a place to stay is such a load off the mind. I’m grateful for the food and I am definitely grateful for a place to sleep,” Shawn says. “The staff are very helpful, compassionate, and it’s a godsend that I am thankful for... its home for now I guess.” Shawn says genuinely.

As the pandemic continued to threaten the health and safety of everyone in our nation, Shawn applauded the steps The Mustard Seed has taken to keep guests safe. Through donor gifts, we were able to hire additional staff, open a secondary shelter, keep up with the heavy demand of increased sanitation and cleaning protocols, and equip staff with PPE – all while providing daily meals and support services.

“They have everything you need, food, toiletries, clothing, everything you could possibly need during this time,” Shawn says. “I would tell somebody that if you needed a place to stay and you wanted to be safe and feel comfortable, this is the place to be.”

During these difficult times, Shawn acknowledges that it’s because of donors like you, he is able to be safe during this pandemic and have a chance for a future.

“I would say to anyone that could, whether that be time or money or toiletries or clothing, is even more appreciated now. We do know where all this comes from... and we know the value of donors.” Shawn says appreciatively. “I would say to anyone thinking donating right now that you couldn’t pick a better time to donate to give to The Mustard Seed because they need it and we need it. And by the way, thank you.”​​

To learn more about the Mustard Seed, visit theseed.ca.​

 

Categories: Shelter

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