When life took a wrong turn for the Hall family in Richmond four years ago it was the helping hands at the Richmond Christmas Fund that nudged the crew of five back to their feet.
“We were blessed to have the opportunity and it certainly was a life saver for our family, as we were in dire straights,” said Angela Hall, 43, from her home in Langley.
Hall’s partner Cheryl had taken a turn for the worse medically and employment insurance had run out.
For four years it was a struggle to manage Cheryl’s disability and access government payments, as she was no longer employable.
“That took a long time to get that to go through,” said Hall, noting the family also took advantage of the numerous community meals in Richmond.
The family used the Fund’s toy room, received gifts and was even sponsored for two years by generous donors.
Where this story turns for the better is how now that the family is in a stable position, it’s Angela, Cheryl and their three children who have decided to give back.
“So, this year, instead of purchasing gifts for our family, we are going to donate to the Christmas Fund, and we even found a family to sponsor,” said Hall.
“Our life has taken a great turn this past year and we’re in a much position this Christmas,” said Hall.
Recently, Hall’s oldest son moved out and the family started fostering a 16-year-old girl. With a 13 year-old daughter and 20 year-old son, not to mention two dogs and three cats, their new home in Langley is a lively one.
Hall said it was financially necessary to leave Richmond to become mortgage free and the foster work is a way to pay the bills while helping a child.
“We wanted to find a way we could bring in an income and also be able to give. Fostering was a way we could achieve both of those goals,” said Hall.
With better fortunes on their side, Hall is now a sponsor of a family in need in Richmond.
She is also now fundraising to make money for the Christmas Fund.
“It’s a way to help out this year, in order to thank them for what they did for us,” said Hall.
During their time of need Hall said it was a daily struggle.
“We of course did everything we could to watch our pennies; shopping at thrift stores and buying no-name brand food — anything possible to survive and lots of prayer. We were thankful to have family support us,” said Hall.
She says her advice to anyone looking for that first handout is to be brave, not feel ashamed, and take it.
“One of the biggest challenges when you’re in difficult financial situation is a lot of people feel shame when they’re poor and they’re afraid to ask for help. I would suggest you not be afraid to ask for help. That’s why it’s there. Don’t be ashamed and take the opportunities to turn around,” said Hall.
“And when you turn around, be thankful and give back. That’s how you help to make the world a better place.”
