Impactful Stories
At Alberta Recovers, we are deeply committed to harnessing the strength of community support during challenging times. Our program plays a crucial role in connecting generous donors with individuals and families who have been affected by disasters.
The success stories from our efforts, particularly during the devastating 2013 Calgary floods, serve as powerful reminders of the positive impact of community solidarity. These stories illustrate the resilience of individuals and families who, with the help of Alberta Recovers, have been able to rebuild their lives and regain a sense of normalcy.
Together, we can continue to strengthen the bonds within our community and provide vital support to our neighbours in times of crisis. With each contribution, whether large or small, we are reminded that we are not alone—our community stands ready to lend a helping hand. As we move forward, we invite everyone to join us in this mission of compassion and support, ensuring that no one faces hardship alone.
Restoring Hope: How Bridges of Love Supported a Family in Crisis
I was recently affected by the June 2013 flooding and was at the end of my search for help until someone suggested Bridges of Love. I had just moved into a home with my six children when the floods hit, destroying our belongings. Because I wasn't directly in the flood area, no agency would help my family. After many frustrating calls, I was connected with Bridges of Love, and they wanted to help me.
Marg and Tom are the nicest people I've ever met. They went out of their way to help us, not just with donations, but also by listening to my problems and providing quick answers to our needs. They responded rapidly, providing food, clothing, cleaning supplies, and even help with yard work, as I am on disability.
One night, we forgot my daughter needed a sleeping bag for Bible camp. I emailed Marg, thinking it was too late, but an hour later, it was at my door! Their kindness and support lifted my spirits and gave me hope for my family.
I am proud to know Bridges of Love. They provided more than any agency could. They listened and found ways to help us when no one else would. They may not be a large agency, but they have the biggest hearts. My family could have been anyone’s family, and they wouldn't hesitate to help anyone.
Many thanks,
Shauna :)
Compassion in Action: How Bridges of Love Supported Disaster Relief
During the Alberta flood of June 2013 we were privileged to make the acquaintance of Marg and Tom Pollon of Bridges of Love. Our church (Church of God in Christ, Mennonite) was looking for accommodations for volunteers to help with the flood restoration and cleanup in the Calgary area. The volunteers were travelling from BC, AB, SK and MB. After many attempts to locate a facility in Calgary we decided to contact Samaritan’s Purse. We were excited to hear they knew of a ministry called Bridges of Love that they thought could help us. We contacted Marg and she immediately went to work on finding us what we needed. She made many phone calls to find us a church (building) where the volunteers could sleep and be served meals and also arranged for cots to be brought in. The second morning Marg and Tom graciously brought us breakfast for 15 – 20 people. This was not a request from us but rather kind and caring folks giving from their personal resources. From then on they also arranged for numerous meals to be served to the volunteers. After a few days that group of volunteers went home but within a short time we had another group looking for accommodations again. Marg again went to work and located another church for us which filled our needs. We were blessed to be able to work with such compassionate and caring people and know God will bless them as they minister through Bridges of Love!
Sincerely,
Ray & Verda Klassen (Christian Disaster Services)
A Journey of Generosity: Gift of a Car Transforms Lives
“Alberta Recovers” developed, to assist the many who suffered tragic circumstances, throughout the 2013 Flood. Receiving kind support from “RECOVERS” US, allowed Bridges of Love to match donations with flood victims through an on-line portal website they developed. One very rewarding experience we were personally involved, was due to a vehicle donation from a Red Deer couple. Samaritan’s Purse turned this activity over to Bridges of Love since we were looking after donations. The very kind Red Deer donor gave an automobile to share with a flood victim who had lost their transportation. After consideration for this special request, we made the decision to surprise a Bridgeland resident who was without a vehicle due to flooding in her district near the river.
You will see from the look on Ann’s face, the surprise and gratitude when she received this most generous gift! This vehicle was much more than Ann ever expected or ever dreamed of receiving, so the response was most heartfelt with great appreciation. There were tears of joy shed from the ‘giver’, the recipient, and those who were involved in the match!
Sharing Christ’s love through Alberta Recovers is a wonderful experience and one we knew we wanted to continue. Due to the catastrophic loss of Alberta Recover’s website a few years back, we made the decision to duplicate what they had developed so Bridges of Love could continue offering this on-line donation/matching platform. We are pleased to say, due to a computer science guru, who spent last summer working on this project, we once again have the capability to match donations with disaster victims. We look forward to serving others though Bridges of Love’s new “Alberta Recovers” site for future disaster recovery efforts.
