“The grocery prices we remembered from 2016 were completely different. So, we were struggling trying to make ends meet,” Avneet recalled.
As the eldest of four siblings, much of the responsibility fell on her shoulders. Her parents had always been independent and generous – her mother had even volunteered with the Archway Food Bank years earlier. But now, rising costs have made even basic groceries difficult to afford.
“My parents were hesitant and embarrassed and wouldn’t even go to the food bank,” she explained. “They kept saying, ‘We’re not that bad off,’ but the support was still needed.”
It was a friend who finally encouraged them to reach out, reminding them that even former volunteers sometimes need help. Still, her parents were too uncomfortable to walk through the doors themselves, so Avneet went for her family.
Did You Know?
Archway has been operating the Food Bank since the 1980s, and it grew out of the Christmas Bureau, which began in 1968.
Rediscovering Christmas Magic
The family had just returned to Canada in October, and Christmas was fast approaching – an especially magical time for Avneet’s younger siblings who still believed in Santa.
That year, they were introduced to the Archway Christmas Bureau, a moment they still cherish.
“My parents said it was the best thing that happened to them,” said Avneet. “They were able to give happiness and joy to their children during a really hard time.”
The Abbotsford Christmas Bureau Toy Room is where families choose the perfect gifts to bring holiday joy and smiles to their children on Christmas morning. Caregivers browse thousands of gifts on the toy room shelves, which are generously provided by the community through the annual Archway Toys for Tots Christmas brunch.
Walking into the toy room felt surreal for Avneet.
“Standing in the toy room, I felt like I was in the North Pole or in Santa’s Workshop. I was surprised at how many gifts there were to choose from and how thoughtful people were with their donations.”
Archway Christmas Bureau Toy Room staff and volunteers
Inside the Archway Christmas Bureau Toy Room.
“Standing in the toy room, I felt like I was in the North Pole or in Santa’s Workshop. I was surprised at how many gifts there were to choose from and how thoughtful people were with their donations.”
Support That Went Beyond Food
As time went on, the family continued to visit the food bank, and the impact went well beyond groceries.
“We weren’t just receiving food,” she says. “We got cleaning supplies, sanitary pads, and foods from our culture like flour and spices.”
She remembered how each visit made her feel welcomed and respected.
“Everyone was so happy to help and be involved and it made me feel so comfortable. The staff always had smiles on their faces and I’m just so thankful, sometimes you just need that one smile to brighten up your day.”
As her parents saw how much the services helped, both financially and emotionally, their hesitation slowly faded.
“Even saving $100 was a lot for us at that time. That $100 went to something else we needed.”
A Message of Courage
Looking back, Avneet understands the fear many families feel when reaching out for help.
“It’s okay to be hesitant, but people’s opinions don’t matter. It will help you both financially and mentally,” touted Avneet.
Avneet also wanted to thank the donors and volunteers.
“You are all angels, I’m so grateful to all the donors for all that they do. You might feel like you’re giving a little, but for us on the receiving end, it makes such a huge difference. One day, I hope we can give back the way others gave to us.”
“I would like to be the reason why somebody smiles the way that we have been able to smile.”
Moving Forward
This year, Christmas will look a little different for their family. Her siblings are older now, and their needs have changed.
But more importantly, the family is beginning to regain their financial footing.
“We haven’t been to the food bank since June. We’re okay, not great, but okay. And now other families who need it more will have the chance to receive that help.”
Avneet looks forward to giving back some day.
“I would like to be the reason why somebody smiles the way that we have been able to smile.”
*Pseudonym used to protect client privacy