I grew up in Los Angeles and my mom—a single mom—worked three jobs to keep food on our table. Every day, I looked forward to the hot lunch I would get at school as dinner was never certain.
We moved to the Lower Mainland when I was 12 years old and I ended up in foster care shortly thereafter. My mom struggled with mental illness and wasn’t able to take care of me the way she wanted. Ultimately, she passed away a few years later.
When I struck out on my own at 17, I was truly alone. I would often head down to the Food Bank to help me get through the last few days before payday. I would be embarrassed standing in line, but back at home eating the food I was so grateful for the help.
I got a job as a messenger for a large investment management firm and, over the years, have worked my way up to being a Team Lead for their accounting department. I have two teenage children, a lovely wife and live happily in Ladner.
I joined Backpack Buddies as a monthly donor after I heard an ad on the radio. The kids’ Backpack Buddies helps remind me so much of my own experience as a kid. These are kids who are hungry all the time—and who have gotten used to that.
Together, we can help. Whatever your story and your reason for giving, I know you’ll agree with me when I say that no child should go hungry.
