Rock Bay Landing
Victoria, British Columbia

The Victoria Cool Aid Society builds homes, lives and community. We create opportunities for people who are homeless or living in poverty. We make a difference through housing, health care, support and emergency shelters

Drop off Locations:
  • To be added, To be added , To be added
  • Rock Bay Landing, 535 Ellice Street, Victoria , Please drop off all gifts at the Rock Bay Landing shelter, 535 Ellice Street, Victoria (250-383-1951, [email protected]), open 24 hours a day. Just let them know that it is for Homeless Partners. We need all gifts by noon on December 22nd at the latest. Please ensure gifts are labeled with the Assigned ID (that is posted with that individual).

Stories

57

Gifts

155

Pledged Gifts

114 of 155

Patrick is originally from Montreal, and can speak both French and English. He has lived in the Victoria area for the better part of 20 years, and plans to stay for quite some time. After leaving the military, he “visited” his brother in Victoria about 20 years ago, and has lived here since! He was a reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces, and in the early 90s served as a UN peacekeeper in the Golan Heights area of Israel along the Syrian border. Subsequently, he served directly in the conflict in Bosnia in southeastern Europe, which was a traumatic experience for him as well as many other troops. The experience of having to shoot at other human beings (even if they were on the “wrong” side of the conflict) as well as encountering things such as mass graves, has had a profound effect on him. He is now a veteran. Right now, he’s in a lot of pain because he has some torn ligaments in his knee, rendering him unable to work. Due to some complicated tax situations, MSP is not covering him for the surgery at this time. He went to Veterans Affairs and they are able to assist him somewhat, but he is now having to wait a year and a half from now for an MRI, and another year and a half from then for the actual surgery. He is able to do odd jobs here and there, but due to the constant pain of his knee, no matter what position it’s in, day-to-day life can be a struggle. As for what makes Rob happy, he loves his family and he loves books. He loves sci-fi especially, as well as fantasy books. His favourite author is Steven Erikson. He can go through a book in a week! He has an ex-wife and a son in Ontario, and keeps in touch with his son via their mutual enjoyment of online video games. If he won the lottery, he’d buy himself a house for himself and his friends. He’d also get his long-overdue knee surgery! Right now, the hardest part of life is his knee due to the constant pain and the effect it has on his life. He’s always been a very active person. In addition to the military, he’s also an athlete and enjoys the outdoors. A debilitated knee has a negative effect on his ability to engage in those hobbies. He also suffers from depression and that can also cause hardship. Prayer-wise, he’d love for people to pray for good health!

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Richard's father was in the military so he moved around a great deal growing up. At some point his parents divorced. His mother stayed in Eastern Canada and his father moved west. In 1993 Richard moved to Victoria where he's held jobs as an electrician, dish washer and prep cook, and janitor. Things haven't always gone well for Richard but at the moment they are looking up. He expects to be moving into an apartment at Rock Bay Landing and feels that will make it easier to get permanent work and a place to live. At the moment, it's hard to get references when he's tried to rent an apartment and the stability of RBL should help that. He feels fortunate that his mother prays for him regularly.

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Jean was born in Montreal on 21 September 1982, he came to Victoria in 1985, and never wants to leave. Jean was in Foster care after his parents divorced, he was told he would end up as a criminal and that he was a low life because he had no parents. Jean's mom passed away 5 years ago, Jean works at a thrift shop and appreciates nice clothing, Being around friends, food and on the computer make him happy, If he won the lottery he would start with getting the necessities. Please keep Jean in your prayers regarding his finances, and know that at the moment he is content and is happy to share his story with you.

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Sheldon was Born in Winnipeg, Manatobia, on the 30th of March 1974. He has been in Victoria for 5 months, and if it works out he would like to stay here. Sheldon feels deep remorse from the death of his sister. When she confessed that she had been abused by her father for many years, in disbelief sheldon said some things he regrets and stopped talking to her, months later she commited suicide. Sheldon is living with depression and feels hopless. He is Spiritual not religious, but asks that you pray that he experiences abundance. Sheldon is deeply sad and feels very misunderstood.

Wish List
  • Black Hoody sz L

no information was provided for a story

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This 48 year old man is originally from Ottawa and was raised in Alberta. He says things contributing most to his struggles are “homelessness, prior residence was over-run by bed bugs, for four months could not find affordable housing, need a place to get a job and need a job to get a place.” He is looking for warehouse work. He says it is “hard to deal with prejudice, not jumping to conclusions and give people a chance.” He reports he has no criminal convictions and no addictions. He relates that he was tenting near a bridge in town and was attacked by four large men who escaped. Police were called and there were witnesses but no arrests resulted. He says he would like to work for TAPS (Together Against Poverty Society). He asks prayers for “someone who needs it more than me, a new move, anything for kids.”

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This 41 year old man is originally from Fort MacMurray. He has been in the Victoria area for one year and wants to remain. His biggest challenge is lack of support from the medical field. He has set up a foundation to address issues of depression, suicide prevention, and the best treatment plan for mental health. He has struggled with depression for 30 years, and he wants to be “a voice for mental health and addiction” recovery. He asks prayers to “keep empowering me, my purpose and what’s going to happen.”

Wish List
  • Backpack

Born in Germany into a military family, Kevin age 40, wants to live the rest of his life in Victoria. He use to be an executive at a large food company but he had to quit due to his health. He developed multiple health problems – from cancer to hernia and a variety of other problems which ended him up on disability. What makes Kevin happy is to be outside in nature – although he does not have the energy to ride a bike. He also has trouble with crowds so it makes public transportation very difficult. He would like for people to pray that his health improves.

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Jessica age 38, has been here in Victoria for 2 years and she would like to stay here permanently. “Life is better now.” Last year, Jessica participated in the homelesspartners interviews while she was pregnant and living on the street. She made a big turn around in her life last Dec and has now been clean and sober for more than 11 months – she has her own place to live – where she will be moving into soon and getting her son back. She is very grateful for the many people who have helped her- especially the women at Hulitan “were amazing” she said. The thing that makes her happy is to have hope. She said that she got into the lifestyle by partying too much and then turned to drugs. She said if she won the lottery, she would like to devote herself to helping people who don’t know where to turn. She wants people to pray for everybody living on the street especially when it’s cold. She felt good about the interview.

Wish List
  • Gift cards from Walmart or Superstore

This 53 year old man is from Regina and been 2 years in Victoria and will stay because his son and grandson are here. His biggest challenge is government that refused WCB when his back was injured while doing carpentry. He is happy when fishing. If he won a large lottery amount he would try to give most away and build housing and washrooms. He would pray for others rather than they pray for him.

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Carl G, was born in Yellowknife in 1978. He moved to Red Deer between the ages of 8 to 10. He has recently been a dishwasher. He has been here at the Rock Bay Shelter for a couple of months. He has been in Victoria for years. At one time he was married, but there are no children.The House Carl house was living in was being demolished, forced to get out, that's when he turned to Rock Bay Shelter to help him start again. He always tries to keep it upbeat. "If I can smile/laugh it's good for me. He loves to read, it is what makes him feel happy. Carls hope and dream is to write novels that get published. One of the hardest thing’s in Carls life is not having privacy. Currently sharing the same room with three other men. He wants to be able to control who comes into his space. Sometimes he just needs quiet, a quiet place to read or relax.  Carl grew up in a large family, and being the oldest he had no space and had to care for everyone. His mother was a single mom. He has very little contact with his siblings.  Carls deep desire is is to be self-sufficient and get out of the shelter and get back into a more stable situation.

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This 48 year old woman is from Tofino and has been in Victoria five years and plans to remain to be close to the doctor. She says she has been getting double pneumonia because she does not have a warm coat. Finding a place to live would make her happy; she has been in the shelter for a week. She wants to see her children up island.

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This 26 year old woman is from Victoria and will remain. She say the biggest challenge is her mental health, borderline personality disorder, fear of abandonment. She was in an abusive relationship. She feels happy when she succeeds at doing something. She asks prayers to open a house for people with BPD, that she can “beat it,”she says “mental illness is my biggest barrier.”

Wish List
  • Gift card to Walmart for food

  • Warm winter coat size 6X- from Pennington's (Please include receipt for exchange of size)

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Michelle was born and raised in Victoria. She's had some ups and downs, primarily in the area of her financial stability, but she is now in a transitional apartment at Rock Bay Landing. She used to work as a Nurse's Aid but would like to work in another area, she's not sure what. She hopes the stability of RBL will open up new job strategies for her. Her main desire is to eventually have housing stability and if she won the lottery, to buy herself a house.

Wish List
  • Gifts for her three children: Allison 17, Tyler 14, and Mikayla 12.

Christine is a 43 year old with a bright personality, born in New Brunswick. Christine recently moved to Victoria from Kamloops with her partner, They are planning to get married on February 14. They plan to stay in Victoria. Christine feels the struggles that got here where she is today is she was born with FAS and realizes it has contributed to her learning disabilities. She has contact with her family mostly through Facebook. Prayers for her would include relief from Diabetes and arthritis in her leg. Christine felt a little nervous about the interviews but is always happy to meet people.

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Peter was born on 21 August 1951 and raised in Sooke BC. Peter feels his parents divorce contributed to most of his difficulties in life, Peter spent many years doing construction and fying Planes, his last flight was Ten years ago. Listening to good Music makes Peter happy, if he won the lottery he would buy a boat with a wood stove and sail around the Island. Peter attends church every sunday and is praying for a companion. Peter is happy to share his story with you.

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This 35 year old man is originally from Nova Scotia. He has lived in the Victoria area for just over a year and thinks he will remain three years more. He says things contributing most to his struggles are addiction, unable to keep a job, losing connection with family. He says things that make him happy are watching and playing sports and teaching kids sports. If he won the lottery, he says he would “give money to my mom…..go to Boston and watch my favourite team play.” He asks for prayers to “keep sobriety, been 5-6 years, finding the right group of people.” He says being homeless has allowed him to face the question: “Is this what I want to be?”

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This 61 year old man is originally from Kamloops and has been in the Victoria area for eight years. He wants to stay until he can attend a resort for the mentally disabled. He says things contributing most to his struggles are his mental illness, brain trauma and stroke two and a half years ago, epilepsy and type 2 diabetes. He enjoys all types of music beginning with country western or gospel music or classical or easy listening like Anne Murray. If he won the lottery, he says it would “go for charity” and he would volunteer at Our Place and Rock Bay Landing. He said his mom died in her sleep. He asks prayers for his migraines to go away, and to never commit suicide or self-harm. He wants to be at peace with his mother and father and sister.

Wish List
  • Hat, gloves, scarf

  • Thermal underwear (blue), size Medium

  • Phonecard

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This 58 year old woman is originally from Northern Ontario and been in the Victoria area for 3 years; she has two adult children here and will probably stay. She says she has a lack of family support and was diagnosed at a young age with mental illness and has been 28 years on the street. She enjoys making people laugh. If she won the lottery, she would create intentional communities where people learn skills, purchase some property and do search and rescue with horses. She asks prayers “that things shape up in my life,” and for housing and relations with her children and more contact with her brother and sister and dad. About the interview, JoAnne said she had different emotions and felt vulnerable but safe and appreciated the time spent with her.

Wish List
  • Warm winter coat, size Medium

  • Backpack

  • Gift certificate for Rockhound Shop

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This 22 year old man is originally from Ontario. He has been in the Victoria area for two years and wants to stay. He says things contributing most to his struggles is “not seeing my family” for two years. He says movies and video games make him happy. If he won a big lottery amount, he would open a restaurant and “make my own business.” He asks prayers to be a fire fighter.

Wish List
  • Pass to Cineplex Odeon

  • Video game (PS3)

This 41 year old is originally from Manitoba and has been in Victoria two and a half years. She thinks she will stay two more years. She “absolutely loves” Victoria. She says things contributing most to her struggles are mental road blocks, legal situation, and anxiety. She feels happy when she “can make a positive change in someone’s life.” If she won a large lottery amount she would “buy a large acreage and set up affordable housing for those in need.” She asks prayers for “well-being and successful future, happiness, having family and friends.”

Wish List
  • Professional business dress, size 8, colour black or white

  • Laser facial hair removal

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  • Elegant warm winter coat, size Large, female

This 36 year old is from Duncan and has been in Victoria for one year. She will stay due to health issues. She has been doing gender reassignment for a year and health problems are the biggest challenge in her life. She feels happy being in the process of gender reassignment. If she won the lottery she would “donate back to people who helped me out.” She asks prayers for health and for her “illness that will never go away.”

Wish List
  • Warm footwear, size 16, female

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  • Warm winter coat, size XL, female

  • Cosmetics

David was Born in Sudan on March 11 1982, He Moved to Victoria 7 years ago and considers Victoria his new home. David doesn't think anything specifically has contributed to his struggle, he accepts it as life. When asked what makes David happy, with a big smile he replied great people, if he won the lottery he would buy himself a house and have a family again. David loves Jesus and is looking for a Job in a warehouse, please keep him in your prayers.

Wish List
  • Pair of White Nike Shoes Size 9

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  • Jeans Size 32

  • Gift Card to Best Buy

Jacob was bor in Ethiopia on 8 August 1987, Jacobs moved to Winnipeg manitoba, before moving out west, if things go well David will stay in Victoria. David has some health concerns he'd rather not talk about. David tried to Join the Air force but was discouraged when the back ground test took so long because he didn't know his father, and gave up on it. Animals makes David happy Please pray that the Lord help David settle down and find a good Job working with animals.

Wish List
  • warm foot wear size 9

  • Buss pass

Jerome was born in Vancouver on April 13 1968, Jerome has spent the last 20 years in Victoria, he has no plans to leave. Jerome has struggled with PTSD from childhood sexual trauma. When asked what makes Jerome feel happy he said safety and safe people. Jerome Volunteers with cool aid society and likes feeling part of a team. When asked what he would do if he won the lottery Jerome said he would take a wealth management course so he would know how to handle it. Please pray that Jerome has enough food.

Wish List
  • Thermal under wear size XL

  • Thrifty's Gift Card

Randy was born in Victoria BC on August 2, 1965. Randy and his wife divorced just after his father died in 1999. Randy decided to give his ex everything so his Daughters could get a good education and he's proud to say his eldest is in Nursing school. Randy 's girls are the apple of his eye and he feels happiest when he thinks of them, if he won the lottery he would start trust funds for his girls. Randy's asks that you pray for the young girls that come to Rock Bay.

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Thomas was Born in Victoria BC on March 18 1971. Thomas has struggled with addiction his whole life, he started drinking at age 10, he has experienced one year sober, but is struggling right now and has given up hope, just accepting that he's an addict. Thomas has had a lot of loss, he lost his Mom, Dad, Sister and Aunt. When asked what makes him happy Thomas talked about his love for the automotive industry and if he won the lottery he would open a Motor Bike shop and work on bikes and ride again. Thomas is totally disconnected from his family and feels a lot of shame about where he's at. Thomas asks that you pray for there health and well-being of his family.

Wish List
  • Jeans Size 30 waist 34 legg

  • Warm winter coat

  • Bike and Trailer

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Rob is originally from North Battleford, SK, but was born in Terrace, BC. He has lived in BC on and off since 1990 and in Victoria for 3 years now. He was brought her by the climate, and also had a sister and brother here (the brother passed away last year).At the time of our interview, he was feeling very lucky to be alive, as he has just overcome a drug addiction. He feels safe and happy, and very glad to be clean. Talking to his family, not being lonely, and not being on the street is what makes him happy. The hardest part of life for Rob is when people have lost hope in him, such as his mother in SK, who is scared of losing him. The recent death of his brother is also hitting him very hard, as his brother had an addiction himself. Realizing that people are “sick of you s**t” is also a hard part of life for Rob.Prayer-wise, Rob would like it if people prayed for his strength to continue being sober, as well as for his kids, who live in SK, who be healthy and safe.

Wish List
  • Buss Pass

  • Walmart Gift Card

Brenda has been in Victoria for about 8 months. She is originally from the interior of BC. She came here to pick up her belongings that were in storage. The story of how this happened was long and complicated. She owned a motor home that broke down in Vernon and was taken advantage of by a garage who, at first told her the repair bill was $800, then they made other changes that cost $4,000 which she did not authorize. She had a series of miserable events that finally resulted in the her motor home catching on fire because the garage who installed her alternator, put it in backwards which led to the electrical fire of her motor home. This was followed by a series of unfortunate events including someone charging her $500 per month, just to park her motor home. Brenda can’t really think of anything that is funny. She was very upset when all of her earthly possessions were thrown out. She feels like she doesn’t know what she’s going to do -she feels empty and hollow. On top of everything else, she was recently bitten by a spider that made her finger very swollen and was told that she almost lost her finger.

Wish List
  • Warm footwear size 9 gender female

  • Backpack

  • Cell phone or tablet

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Dennis is about 49 years old and has been in Victoria for 2 months. He had a stroke in January of last year and had to move out of his place due to construction next door that damaged the house he was living in. Dennis had to leave Rock Bay after 30 days but he has returned for another 30 day stay. He thinks he has found a place to live but he is waiting for the paper work. He originally came from Edmonton from a large family with 6 sisters, a brother, has 2 children and 5 grandchildren. The reason he came to Victoria was because he was coming with his girlfriend. He used to work full time driving, at Costco and a lumber company. Dennis is quiet and shy and feels like it is difficult for him to deal the problems of finding a new place to live. He asks that people pray for his health – he has a lot of problems that resulted from his stoke – legs, he can’t move his toes, has trouble with his ankles, his knees hurt when he walks too far, has trouble with his eyes and has trouble writing with his hand. He felt good about the interview and felt very comfortable sharing.

Wish List
  • Blanket and pillow

  • Winter coat – large –male

  • Bed and other furniture for his new place

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Scott was born January 15, 1976. He grew up in Victoria, and moved to Port Hardy where he raised his three children, now ages 14, 12 and 11. Scott is missing his family a lot, He was able to get his children's mom a job. Scott moved back to Victoria he does not know how long he will be here. He came to Rock Bay Shelter in need of detox. He started using and it became a problem. He never thought it would become a problem. He told us he had "slipped "not ready to have his children here. He has had feelings of being mildly discombobulated, emotional, feelings of being sideways because of the drugs and of course feeling shame and guilt because this is not who he is. Scott has a heart for his kids. One daughter reached out to him saying that she really missed him and felt really sad. Scott was deeply affected by his daughter and wants him to make it right. Scott desires to be free from addiction and have control of his life again. He's never been in a shelter before. The hardest part of his life is missing his kids and taking care of himself. Currently his greatest concern is not being able to give his kids a good Christmas. Scott still remembers who he really is and was at one time. His deepest desire, and if you would pray that his kids have a good Christmas. He would like to get his life back on track and be reunited with his children who are living back east with their Mother. If Scott won the lottery, he would build a home in a remote location and raise his kids in privacy. Scott would buy lots of land and build a dog conservatory business around that. He has a dog now from a friend he met.

Wish List
  • Warm foot wear size 10

  • Warm winter coat Size XL

Fiona, age 54, was born in Scotland and will remain because her dad is here. She is trying to downsize She says she has accumulated too much stuff and has difficulty letting things go. She feels happy when doing art and learning to use a brush to make shadows. If she won a large lottery, she would invest some, take care of her dad, take him and her brother to Scotland for a visit, buy a house.

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Lesa N, was born in Nanaimo, BC. in 1976 and raised in Sparewood, B.C. She had a really rough upbringing and did not want to stay long, at 14 years old she joined a carnival, and made cotton candy. She ended up getting pregnant. She has been homeless for a year now, and this year has been a year of self-discovery. Housing is the hardest part of her life. Lesa, does not want to stay here at the shelter. She feels she does not fit in, too much drama. She has discovered being homeless, that she has a heart for the homeless. Lesa’s real dream and desire is to become a practical nurse. She would like to go back to school. Lesa has applied for a cash registry through PEERS. She has an appointment at native status next week and is looking to get a little help there. She lost a soulmate years ago it was really hard. She has a daughter, and two grandchildren. Her grandson is 10 1/2 years old and her granddaughter is 3. What makes her happy is her deep desire to be productive. "Being homeless you become really humble ". She would love to give back to a homeless shelter. She told us that being homeless is the hardest thing in her life. She has two darling Chihuahua dogs. You can tell they are well cared for. Her desire is to have her own home and space. She has already been giving back to homeless people at the tent city, they call it, at the courtyard close to the YMCA. She and some others from Merriman house, take food and supplies over to them. She has really been processing what it is to be homeless, to be sincere to herself to look deeper into the issues of homelessness. She said you can feel the shun of people, that they look at you a certain way and do not understand. But she has found the homeless people to be really quite a good community. They have helped her out in her time of need, and are always willing to talk, share and support. What she would really like is for the people she loves the most to be safe and happy, and her cry is that her life will come together. She is grateful and thankful for everything, hamburgers, whatever!  Two things that Lisa has learned is, to be grateful and to be sincere and honest to herself. She has been observing people and their behaviour. She enjoys conversing with homeless people.You can see her heart is a giving heart because she desires for her partner to go home for Christmas - a plane ticket from Victoria to Toronto with one dog.

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Peter H, born in Newfoundland in 1971. His father worked in social services for 25 years in Newfoundland. He desperately wants to find work and get back to what he did well which was contracting and prepping and painting jobs/finishing.  Peter was the owner/proprietor of his business. He has no family here in Victoria, but he has tools and equipment. He just needs a van to get back to work. He said he would go door-to-door until he gets a job. He seems confident that he can get back to where he was before life happened. He was actually brought to the shelter by the kindness of a policeman who saw that he had nowhere to stay at the time. What makes him feel happy is to see others happy. If he won the lottery, he would want to go back to Newfoundland and buy his grandmother's old house back where he has many fond memories, where they would go fishing, sit on the porch with a hot coffee or something and eat his grandma's great cooking enjoying the relationships that were very memorable to him. His grandmother was a Christian, churchgoing woman. As he was reminiscing about those days it was like he was painting a beautiful picture. He had some hard times as we all do, but he has a son that he raised on his own, because the mother died. The son is now 18 years old. When his son was 12 he met a woman that he married and Peter had provided a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home for them, and the mother-in-law moved in with them and it did not go well. The mother-in-law ended up moving out and had been a real problem, and his wife told him she was leaving him to look after her mother. So she chose her mother over her husband. Peter started giving up a bit, got hurt, depressed, started spending money, lost it all. He had around $100, 000.00 He had been quite successful prior to all this, But he is confident that he can gain it back. Just needs a chance to get going again, and the shelter has helped him to get reoriented. He is ready to go back up now.  He has hit bottom and the only way is up, as he said. His heart is for happiness, someone to be proud of him, to find a good woman who is kind, to live a life of integrity with morals, have a family and regain his business, starting from the bottom and working his way up.

Wish List

Please meet Pierre – who was a joy to interview despite the heartbreaking turn of events that changed his life more than a dozen years ago. The first thing you can’t help but notice is Pierre’s incredible smile – such warmth - that until he jokingly said that all he wanted for Christmas was his one front tooth – I’d not even noticed was missing. Pierre hails from Quebec City where his life was good. Happily married with a young son and a great career in computer programming - when out of the blue his wife fell for someone else. This left Pierre spinning and he simply walked away - leaving everything to her and their son. Overnight he was homeless. With a heavy heart and still in disbelieve of his great loss, he began to drink. Thus began an off and on relationship with alcohol to numb the pain, which took years to come to terms with. Pierre returned to Victoria for two main reasons – the weather is much easier on his body, and the technology employment opportunities. Pierre has a wealth of knowledge and experience that include (not in its entirety) data base operator for the Federal Government - airplane maintenance software programmer for Air North, Whitehorse and Smart Car and the TV Board. Any potential employers would do themselves a great favour, by at the very least, interviewing Pierre. Contract work would be ideal. When asked what makes him happy – Pierre answered; reading (and proudly displayed his 6 library cards from across Canada, all active) and photography; mostly landscape and architecture which he posts on FB for his mother and friends. When asked what he finds the hardest – he answered; Isolation - and of course, no roof of one’s own. Below you will see his wish needs listed – but I’m also going to put this out there. Is there a dentist who would consider giving Pierre a front tooth for Christmas?

Wish List
  • Runners with a W width and good arch support size 11

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  • Long Distance phone card

  • Bus Pass

Shawna receives much comfort from attending church. When asked what made her happy, it was her immediate response; accompanied by a shy smile of pride. She moved to Victoria from Ontario to join her Mom, and then her Mom moved away; leaving Shawna on her own and with no other family members around her. Shawna's disabilities render her more susceptible to the cold than most, and her wishes for Christmas revolve around staying warm, as she's recently been hospitalized twice due to her body inability to cope with the cold.

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Steven is a young man in his early 30’s, and living with disabilities. He recently moved to Victoria from Surrey, to live in a warmer climate (which alleviates many aches and pains) and is currently a guest at Rock Bay Landing (while he looks for a permanent residence of his own). Steven's main interest is skateboarding, and he enjoys the skate parks available in the Victoria area as much as possible and it's his main form of transportation. He wanted to tell the world that he wishes everyone Peace in their lives, Though Steven has many issues to deal with himself, its pretty easy to tell his first thoughts are for others. His good attitude will take him places. Steven’s wishes for Christmas are small, but integral.

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Monica was born in Edmonton in 1976, Her family moved to Saskatchewan when her father became ill, but his health improved and he began working again. Monica has three children and misses them very much. She has contact with her family mostly through Facebook. Monica knows her addictions have lead to her difficulties but works towards improvement always. Monica currently has a bed at Rock Bay for the month only and is greatful to feel safe. If she won a lottery she would by a home on the water. She feels good about these inter views and is happy to bring awareness to being homeless.

Wish List
  • Pink Hoody Size Med

  • Pink Warm winter jacket Size Med

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  • Buss pass

Priscilla, a 29 year old, born and raised in Victoria, plans to stay here. Priscilla was raised by very good foster family but as an adult, she struggles with addiction. Priscilla has recently suffered some personal trauma and feels a little confused and depressed. The things that make her happy are her partner and her children. When asked if she won a lottery, she would put the money towards animal therapy to make others well. Prayers for her would be to feel better and get healthy.

Wish List

My name is Erick, I am 47 years old. I have been homeless for the last 2 years, but this is the 3rd time in the last 11 years. I have an ex-wife and 12 year old daughter in Japan, I would really like a way to Skype with my daughter, I miss her. I was diagnosed with cancer 11 years ago and have beaten 7 kinds up to now and have 2 to go. I am currently getting chemotherapy and awaiting an operation. I am a fully papered Red Seal Chef but cannot work currently due to my illness and treatment, I have tried to work part time twice in the last year. I love to fish and enjoy reading.

Wish List
  • used laptop or tablet so that I can Skype with my girl

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  • anything fishing related (lures, line, sinkers etc.)

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  • a Walmart gift card that I could put toward a tablet or fishing stuff

  • Any 2nd hand Mystery novels would be appreciated also

Richard is a 48 year old man who has lived in Victoria most of his life. Richard is trained as a welder but has been unable to work as a welder because of an accident he was in. The accident caused him a serious brain injury that has resulted in Richard not being able to read or write. He is therefore unable to read the blueprints of welding projects and therefore companies are reluctant to hire him to work as a welder. Richard applied for disability and became homeless because disability benefits are not sufficient for the cost of living. He lived six years in a tent in Beacon Hill Park because he had a cat and most apartments would not take a pet. Recently he was living in an apartment with a roommate but had to leave there when his roommate moved on. The cost of the accommodation was too much for him to handle himself. Rock Bay received him for one month, and now he is sleeping on a mat at Rock Bay because the weather is far too harsh to live outside. His number one wish for a gift is a tent as he knows he will be living outside in the near future. Richard is a very pleasant man, very friendly and confident. He said he has never had problems with drink or drugs.

Wish List

Joseph age 53, has been in Victoria since 1988 and he would like to stay here. He had a bad accident when he was hit by a moped while he was on his bike. He was knocked 20 feet away. Since then, he has been struggling to re-set his identity. When Joseph was asked what made him happy he said “My struggling makes me happy.” as well as his road bike that gets him around. If he won the lottery he would donate half to a children’s fund. Joseph would like for people to pray about his health and for the people who are around him. He said he liked the interview.

Wish List
  • Socks

  • Hat, gloves & scarf

  • Warm winter coat size L for male

This 58 year old man is from Nova Scotia and arrived in Victoria at age 5 and wants to stay here. He says what contributes most to his struggles is being unable to balance his meds for bi-polar disorder. The last place he lived he “didn’t come out of my room for a long time.” He is happy when he “seeing other people laugh” and “helping other people.” If he won a large lottery amount, he would “make sure my children have money” and “not have to worry.” He asks prayer “to maintain a level emotional state.” His disorder began 20 years ago when he lost his “wife and everything.”

Wish List
  • Warm footwear, size 9

  • Backpack

  • Gift card for Walmart

This 43 year old man is originally from Ontario, has been in Victoria for 12 years and will remain. He says things contributing most to his struggles are addiction and homelessness, clean and sober three and a half years “so it has gotten a little bit better.” He feels happy “looking forward to the future.” If he won the lottery he would “buy property and begin a new life.” He ask prayers that “me and my family stay healthy and have a great Christmas.”

Wish List
  • Backpack

  • Chapters gift card

  • Imax movie pass for an adult and child

This 32 year old man from Merritt. At age 16 he hurt his back and has suffered multiple health problems since then: scoliosis, cellulitis, high stress and anxiety. He was threatened by his landlord who stole all his stuff. He feels happy doing foil engraving. If he won a large lottery, he would get dental work done and get subsidized housing. He asks prayers for his family to forgive me because “I said cruel things” and for “my MRI to show something.” He enjoyed being interviewed because it “gives me a chance to vent things I have no control over.”

Wish List
  • Jeans waist 29, length 32, blue or black

  • Thermal underwear, size Medium

  • Save-on Foods gift card

This 59 year old man from Newfoundland, has been in Victoria since age 18. He says alcohol and women have contributed most to his difficulties. He feels most happy to hear from his daughter in Langley. If he won a big lottery he would buy property, give to charity, and retire. He asks prayers to “have reasonably good health the rest of my life.” He was a welder-fabricator when he got throat cancer but he is clear now.

Wish List
  • Warm footwear, size 7

  • Hat, gloves, and scarf

  • Jeans, size 28 waist, blue

Jaques was born in Montreal Quebec on 7 November 1956, he moved out west with his wife and raised 4 children. When Jaques marriage ended the courts seized his accounts and he was left with nothing. Jaques works in the Okanagen from April -November on organic farms. Jaques contracted Hep C and is in Victoria to get the 90 day treatment. Jaques feels hopeless and disappointed about how his life turned out, if he won the Lottery Jaques wants to travel. Jaques has a relationship with Jesus and wants you to pray for heaven on earth.

Wish List
  • Warm foot wear size 9

  • socks

  • blanket

Dana was born in Calgary Alberta on April 24 1982. Dana was raised in Edmonton until her mother passed away when she was 11 years old. Dana was left alone and decided to come to Victoria BC, where she now calls home. Dana has struggled with a terminal Heroin addiction and is on the waiting list for detox, she hopes for freedom and recovery. Helping her street community makes Dana happy, if she won the lottery she would help the homeless community. Please pray that Dana gets into detox soon and is successful at sobriety.

Wish List
  • WARM FOOT WEAR 8.5

  • BACK PACK

  • BLANKET

Cathy was born into a Military Family in 1956, She moved around a lot and often felt like the new kid on the block. In 1985 Cathy moved to Los Angeles where she was married and had 4 children. In 2004 Her Husband divorced her, she wondered around like a lost soul and in 2008 she lost everything and was officially Homeless. In 2011 Cathy returned to Canada exhausted and beaten down, she found herself on organic farms helping out, then returned to the states where she discovered a passion for quilting. In July she returned to Canada for a family reunion and heard of the cool aid society, her family doesn't know she is homeless. When asked what she would do if she won the lottery, Cathy said she would Quilt a blanket for every homeless bed in the city,

Wish List
  • Socks

  • Buss Pass

  • Anything to do with Quilting

Joseph is about 43 years old. He came from Prince Edward Island 6 or 7 years ago. He came here to look for work in construction and he is planning to stay here permanently. Joseph feels like the most difficult thing in his life is not knowing what’s going to happen from one day to another or where his next meal will come from. He spent 90 days in Wilkinson prison because he was falsely accused of stabbing someone else. He was acquitted of the charge this last summer due to a mistaken identity. Barbeque hamburgers is his favourite food and he feels like food is one thing that makes him happy. If he won the lottery he would like to open a bike shop and he would like to have other people pray that he will keep on the path that he has been on recently – staying out of trouble with the law. One problem he has with getting a job is that the police took his ID and it hasn’t been returned. He felt like the interview was kind of wierd but he wasn’t offended at all.

Wish List
  • Warm footwear size 9-10 male

  • Socks

  • Warm winter coat size large, male

Leslie is from Guyana, South America. He has been in Victoria for 8-9 years and lived in Vancouver for about 10 years. This is not his first time being homeless. He was first homeless while he lived in Vancouver during the big snow. When he was in Vancouver he slept on a cart for plants at Kmart. He has had a rough time this year living on the street. He has dealt with the police many times and he has appreciated the way they have respected him and the fact that he has a mental illness. He feels like he has had a long battle and has taken some legal action against the people who evicted him. He said it’s hard to be happy but he has noticed that a lot of street people are trying to help each other. If he won the lottery, he would go back to Guyana and buy a house. He said there is no poverty in Guyana and he has not seen any homeless people there. He would like for people to pray that he will find a place to live from BC Housing that’s safe and comfortable. He felt that the interview was good.

Wish List
  • Blanket

  • Warm winter coat size: medium or large – black or grey

  • Backpack

RBLCheriK1979 Cheri is originally from Nanaimo. She lost her job and moved to Calgary where she slipped on the ice while going to the library and had a serious injury to her hand and arm. She has had to be on a lot of pain medication to prevent the pain from her accident. Due to the horrendous experiences she endured in your younger years – as a result of the abuse from her mother’s boyfriends she has been depressed from a young age. She was so affected by her experiences that she tried to take her own life. The reason she came to Victoria was to say good bye to her friends who were here. Cheril feels like nature makes her happy. She loves the weather in Victoria and she loves the fact that her friends and loved ones stick by her, even when she wants to push them away. If she won the lottery she would like to pay off her student loans and get an apartment, invest and go back to school so she could learn about the hospitality industry. She asks that people pray for her to be happy and safe. She has a hard time envisioning herself in a position to not be worried and anxious about her life. However, she feels that hitting bottom and arriving at Rock Bay has helped her find herself and feels that she is happier than she ever has been.

Wish List
  • Blanket

  • Backpack

  • Walmart gift card for food

Norman is about 50 years old. He is from Quebec. He said that all his life he has wanted to come to BC because he had family here and because of the natural beauty. He said he wants to live her permanently. He said that the most difficult part of his life was the loss of his son who died from natural causes. He did not feel comfortable saying any more about this. He said that the thing that makes him happy is to have family together. His only family now is and Uncle and cousin and because they are elderly, and any contact with him would bring up old family issues that would upset them, he is not making contact with them. If he won a lottery, he would use his resources to help the homeless – he would like to teach them how to “fish”- so that they can help themselves. He would like people to pray that he lives long.

Wish List
  • Warm footwear size 12-13 – male gender

  • Back pack

  • Bus tickets

Kristina is a 43 year old woman from Ontario but living in Victoria since infancy. She says, “I feel stuck and don’t even feel like moving forward.” Her relationship of 18 years ended. She says she asked for him and says, “I thought I knew what love is.” She wants people to know about homelessness. She prays for others to be strong.

Wish List
  • Box of chocolates

  • Blanket

  • Gloves, scarf, hat

Say hello to John – The first thing one notices about John is his vitality and drive. He is currently a guest at the shelter but he is busily working on his own business that consists of networking through free mobile airtime which will provide phones to our most vulnerable; connecting them to everything from social services to healthcare - from emergency services to employment. John originates from Vancouver and was a health care counselor before a horrific motorcycle accident left him with head injuries that developed into type 2 bipolar disorder - a smashed leg that still causes him pain and trouble walking - and eventually, homelessness. When asked what makes him happy – John answered; the small kindnesses in life - and to be able to share mindful conversation with others. He also added that had it not been for his accident and some failures in his life, he’d not be where he is today with his own spiritual growth. When asked – what would you like others to pray about for you? Without hesitation he said ‘Pray for Peace’. John’s wish list is completely around his work and his difficulty walking. What he really needs for his business is a set of head phones – the big padded kind you can plug into a phone or a computer, no mic required. The other requests are around his inability to walk long distances.

Wish List
  • Head Phones (The Large Padded kind)

  • High Top Runners Size 13

  • Buss pass

This 37 year old man is originally from Saskatchewan. He has lived most of his life in Victoria and whether or not he stays depends upon finding work. He says, "I enjoy working with my hands and am looking for an apprenticeship in mechanics. If he won a large lottery amount, he says, "I would buy property and open my own shop."

Wish List
  • warm winter coat, size XXL - XXXL

  • jean, size 40

  • gift cards for movie or Walmart or Canadian Tire

This 60 year old man is from Victoria and will remain because he has children and grandkids here. He says things contributing most to his struggles are housing, tried to help a roommate and got evicted; was on my own trying to find a room. He feels happy “seeing my grandkids.” If he won a big lottery he would “take care of family.” He asks prayers for good health.

Wish List
  • Warm footwear, size 9 and a half, or ten

  • Warm winter coat, size Medium

  • Thermal underwear, size Medium

  • Boxer underwear, size Medium