As a newcomer to Canada, Oluwatosin Dare faces the challenge of balancing college demands and raising her two children, while providing food for her family and keeping up with her studies.

Due to her busy schedule of studying full time and taking care of her children after school, Oluwatosin is unable to work. Thankfully, the Salvation Army food bank in Brandon, Man., has supported her over the past year, ensuring her family has all the food they need.

Crucial Assistance

“I have worked before, but getting a job sometimes can be difficult, especially with my class schedule,” Oluwatosin says. “Plus, I have to be home before my children come back from school.”

She was introduced to The Salvation Army during her college orientation, when she was given information about a few places that could support students or newcomers. 

The first time Oluwatosin walked into the food bank, she came out happily surprised with the service.

“I was very impressed because they were very friendly. I felt like I was walking into a mall to shop for food, except I didn’t have to pay,” she shares.

Because she feels so welcomed, Oluwatosin looks forward to coming to the food bank weekly.

“I am always very comfortable going. My children look forward to Wednesdays because they know Mommy is bringing treats for them. The staff are friendly. Sometimes I even go with my children. They’re also very friendly with them.”

Due to all the expenses Oluwatosin must deal with as a student and as the head of the family, she says The Salvation Army’s assistance is crucial for her to save some extra money.

“Half of my food shopping budget is saved thanks to the food bank,” Oluwatosin shares. “I have rent to pay, school fees, and children will always need one thing or the other, so it gives me room to pay for all those other things.”

Helping to Adjust

Reflecting on life without access to the food bank, Oluwatosin says her family’s standard of living would be reduced.

As a mother, keeping her children happy is important, especially since they are still adjusting to life in Canada. The Salvation Army has helped do just that.

“I get treats for my children that I normally would not even be able to afford. Without the food bank, they would be missing things other children are enjoying. And being immigrants, they might feel homesick,” she says.

Oluwatosin is halfway through her college business administration program. Once she is done, she is looking forward to starting her professional career in Canada.

Although she does feel stressed about not being able to work while she is in school, the assistance she receives helps her keep calm.

“Coming to an environment where you don’t know anybody, and you don’t know whether you can get help, it is good to know that you can go to places like The Salvation Army and feel welcomed.”