A Richmond resident shares her "full-circle" moment after receiving help from the Richmond Christmas Fund this year.
Jane Malificiar is one of many people helped by the annual Christmas program run by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG). The program helps local residents facing financial hardship by providing them with grocery vouchers, toys and gift cards so they can enjoy a holiday celebration every year.
Before the pandemic, Malificiar was a settlement worker helping newcomers, immigrants and refugees settle in Canada. Part of her job included introducing clients to the Richmond Christmas Fund.
However, after the COVID-19 pandemic, she couldn't find work. Malificiar went back to school and obtained a certificate as a social worker, but had difficulty finding jobs due to a medical condition that prevented her from getting a driver's licence, which is required for many social worker jobs.
"When I tried to go back to work, there was a lot of competition," she said, adding she has been constantly applying for jobs.
"I've gotten so close, but it's often always the driver's licence requirement that is a barrier, which I can't help."
Despite having referred many clients pre-pandemic to the Christmas Fund, Malificiar never thought about applying for it herself.
"It wasn't until I noticed the long lineup at Lansdowne Centre for the Christmas Fund that I finally remembered about it," she said.
"I had the luxury of time on my hands since I was still applying for jobs and decided to line up after making sure I met all the requirements."
Malificiar was able to receive a $45 voucher from the Richmond Christmas Fund this year, something she said would help with groceries during the holidays.
"It's such a full-circle moment for me, from helping others get acquainted with the Richmond Christmas Fund and now getting help back from the same program," she said.
"And because I was able to receive the voucher, I decided to take myself off the Richmond Food Bank list for the holidays to make sure other families can also have food for the holidays."
When asked why she decided to give up her food bank spot, Malificiar said, the $45 voucher will allow her to buy groceries for two full weeks.
"I live alone and a very simple life. I don't need that much, and... $45 is a really huge amount for groceries for me," she said.
"A hamper from the Richmond Food Bank can feed a whole family so it's better for someone else to have it," Malificiar added.
During her ongoing job search, she said being positive has helped her through the last few years. She believes it's important to focus on "life itself" rather than difficult life situations.
"Sometimes I have to really choose my battles ... because I know (life) is really hard right now for everybody," said Malificiar.
"As long as I am capable and I'm healthy, I can make things work. Sure, being out of a job for a few years is not ideal, but I am positive I can change the situation as long as I keep applying."
Malificiar plans to keep looking for jobs where she can use her social worker certification.
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