In the spirit of Christ's teachings to care for 'the least of these, ' [1] the Victoria British Columbia Second Ward Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has embarked on a heart-warming service project that exemplifies true Christ-like charity. Sisters are dedicating their time and talents to sewing quilts and assembling emergency hygiene kits for children and youth in need. Their efforts to do this demonstrate the profound impact that selfless service can have on vulnerable members of our community.
A group of sisters sees a need and goes to work
Janelle Singer, Second Ward Relief Society Service Coordinator, first got the idea from JustServe.org. [2] In the spring of 2024, the sisters organized a quilting bee to complete several blankets previously started by Sister Kelly Urarii and other Church members. Sister Singer shared, '37 beautifully handmade quilts have been delivered this year, with many more in progress.”
'I love to sew these quilts in my spare time, knowing they will be a source of comfort and warmth to the children and youth who have to go into care in Victoria and beyond', said Sister Urarii.
These bright and colourful quilts, specially made for children and youth in need, provide comfort during sudden and unplanned moves for children taken into care, often the result of neglect or trauma.
Recognizing the need for emergency supplies, the sisters also sewed cloth bags and filled them with essential items such as hairbrushes, toothbrushes, and other necessary toiletries. The sisters themselves donated the hygiene items that went into these bags. The Ministry for Children and Families (MCFD) representatives “loved the hygiene kits so much that we decided to make more because there was such a great need. More hygiene kits will be donated this week,” reported Wendy Yzenbrandt, Second Ward Relief Society President.
The need for compassion and help is great
As of March 2024, there were 4834 children and youth in care across British Columbia, with 1140 on Vancouver Island alone. [3] Indigenous children and youth represent 69% of this number. 72% of all children and youth in care were placed due to neglect, inability to care for the child, deprivation, or abandonment. [4]
On November 27, 2024, 32 additional quilts and 22 emergency overnight packages were gratefully received by a resource social worker from the MCFD, who plans to distribute these comfort items to children and youth in need.
Charity never faileth, but our hands are required
Looking ahead, the Relief Society members plan to expand their service projects to include making quilts and hygiene kits for women and children in transition houses who have fled abusive situations. The sisters hope to secure future funding for this non-profit service project to continue their efforts to support vulnerable members of their community. The sisters are just happy that their skills can be used to bless the lives of children and families in need.
The joy that comes from service is evident in the dedication and enthusiasm of these Relief Society sisters as they continue to make quilts and emergency kits and expand their projects. Their commitment to providing comfort and essential supplies to children and families in need reflects the Savior's admonition to care for those less fortunate. The members of the Victoria Second Ward Relief Society truly embody the motto, 'Charity never faileth.' [5] Like sisters around the world, they inspire others to find creative ways to make a difference in their communities.
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