When life takes an unexpected turn, generosity can change what comes next.
Deborah’s story, and that of her two children, reminds us that an act of kindness can make all the difference.
In July, a fire destroyed Deborah Kikontwe’s apartment. In a matter of moments, she and her two young children lost everything but the clothes they were wearing.
As smoke filled the entrance to their apartment, Deborah took refuge on the balcony with her children. For her older son, who has autism, the experience was especially frightening.
“It was truly a traumatic situation. Even today, when I think about it, it still makes my heart ache a little. But the main thing is that we’re alive.”
Support that makes a difference
After the fire, Deborah had to start over. Find a new place to live. Regain some stability. Rebuild a sense of normalcy for her children.
That’s when Sun Youth came into her life.
Through its Emergency Assistance Program, Sun Youth provided food and essential supplies. Later, when the family moved into a new home, the organization helped them with furniture and appliances.
Today, Deborah continues to receive support through Sun Youth’s food bank.
“Sun Youth really supported us a lot during those difficult times.”
Before the fire, Deborah had never heard of Sun Youth. Today, she considers the organization her “guardian angel.”
Because nothing is predetermined.
We can’t always predict life’s challenges. But we can be there when they happen.
For more than 70 years, Sun Youth has brought Montrealers together to help people through difficult times.
Deborah’s story is about a family that had to start over. But it’s also about a community that stepped up when it mattered most.
“There’s always someone heaven sends us, and Sun Youth is an organization that truly won’t let you down in times of disaster.”
Your generosity can change what comes next.
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