In 2006, Stephen went through one of the most difficult periods in his life. A medical condition left him unable to work, forcing him to rely on short-term disability benefits. At the same time, the ending of a long-term relationship and the loss of his housing added layers of emotional strain and uncertainty. When he finally found a basement suite, he had to give up his beloved 10-year-old dog due to rental restrictions, a sacrifice that deepened his feelings of isolation. 

“I was struggling financially, had no car, no job, and limited use of my right arm and hand due to nerve damage. I felt hopeless, as I did not even have enough money for food.” 

After paying his rent, Stephen was left with very little money for food, and he was rapidly losing weight. Weighing only 135 pounds for his height, he was afraid for his survival. Desperate for help, he reached out to the social assistance office where he was referred to the Abbotsford Food Bank. 

“I was so relieved and grateful to be accepted as a client,” Stephen recalled. “The volunteers there would provide me with the food I so desperately required. I honestly believe I might not have healed from my medical condition without that food. In effect the Abbotsford Food Bank and the staff and volunteers were helping to save my life and my health.” 

Food Bank staff and volunteers

Stephen credits the nourishment and support from the food bank in helping him regain his strength. 

“Over time, I put on weight, and my medical condition improved to the point where I could work part-time,” Stephen explained. “Eventually, I no longer required the food donations, but I continued to access other services, like the dental clinic.” 

As Stephen’s life began to stabilize, he wanted to give back, so he started volunteering at the food bank. Stephen volunteered for a year before eventually finding full-time work in a maintenance position at a local treatment center.  

“I was now making enough to donate money regularly, as well as give one-time financial donations.” 

Bulk Buy volunteers

Driven to do more, Stephen went back to university, taking online and in-person courses. His hard work paid off as he transitioned to a clinical role at the treatment center, facilitating groups, working one-on-one with clients, and delivering educational presentations. 

“None of this would have been possible without the support provided by the Abbotsford Food Bank. The people there accepted me and helped me,” said Stephen. 

“No one ever plans to need services like the food bank until they do, and that’s what the food bank is here for – a temporary lifeline through tough times,” said Rebecca Thuro, Archway manager of food security. 

Now almost 20 years after his first visit to the Archway Food Bank, Stephen continues to be involved through donations and advocacy, and he dreams of volunteering again when he retires. His journey from hardship to success is a testament to the power of community support. 

“To anyone who is in need, I would suggest, without hesitation, that you visit the Archway Food Bank. And to those who can donate, please do so. Their work is important – it saved my life and allowed me to help others in turn,” said Stephen.