Grateful Client Shares her Appreciation for The Salvation Army’s Critical Support

The Salvation Army in Williams Lake, B.C., has been in Simone Widdoes’ life for decades. She has received support in different ways, but the most significant assistance to her has been the food bank.

“I’ve been accessing their food bank on and off since I had small children,” Simone said.

“The Salvation Army helped me, not every month, but whenever I needed food.”

Today, her sons are adults living on their own. But there was a time when Simone worked two part-time jobs to provide for her young children.

“The Salvation Army helped me, not every month, but whenever I needed food. They always made me feel like a human being and never judged me. They’re just so nice,” Simone shared.

Throughout the years, The Salvation Army has supported Simone in other aspects of her life. There was a period when Simone experienced homelessness and the Army gave her clothing, tents, household items, and a place to go to during the day to get some food, do her laundry, and clean up.

Most recently, there was an instance that proved to her that The Salvation Army would never leave her stranded. Simone had an operation, which left her incapacitated for some time. Without asking for help, she got everything she needed.

“The Pastor’s wife came to my house and delivered my groceries because I couldn’t get to The Salvation Army. It was amazing. I had tears in my eyes.”

Community Impact

Having experienced their assistance firsthand, Simone always recommends The Salvation Army to friends and family. A few years ago, she referred a friend to the Army’s addiction services, where she got sober. She also helped a niece with four children sign up for the food bank.

Simone believes The Salvation Army’s support is crucial for the people in Williams Lake.

“They always made me feel like a human being and never judged me.”

“If The Salvation Army wasn’t here for those people that need it, it would devastate Williams Lake.”

Seeing people being able to put food on the table, thanks to The Salvation Army, makes Simone smile.

“I see people’s faces when they go in, and I see them when they leave. It makes me feel good to watch them walk out of there feeling happy and excited.”

Simone visits the food bank only when necessary. She is grateful for The Salvation Army’s staff in Williams Lake for their consistent support.

By Juan Romero