“If Everybody Does a Little Bit”: One Woman’s Empowerment Journey

Elizabeth came to Canada in 2003 because she has always liked the beauty of the country. While she was originally sponsored by a local family, the relationship fell apart and she was forced to move into a shelter for women. She spoke no English, but the shelter helped her start to rebuild her life. With that, Elizabeth started her own cleaning business in 2005 to make ends meet, since she wasn't required to speak much English on the job. After applying for government aid and starting English classes, she found additional work cleaning at a local market. For seven years, Elizabeth worked both jobs full-time, until she began to feel pain in her body. She could no longer do the physically demanding tasks required of her, and had to quit her job at the market. Despite the intense pain she felt, she kept working as a housekeeper because she couldn't afford to meet her basic needs. Eventually, in January 2024, she stopped working altogether.

The transition out of employment was challenging, and she did not want to be without work, worried that she would eventually lose her apartment. She had resources though, sharing, "The community help[ed] me with everything. When I [had] a problem they said go to S.U.C.C.E.S.S, they'll help you. Mission Possible also help[ed] me, like with BC Housing, everything, like finding a job. And then they help[ed] me, and they changed my life."  

When Elizabeth arrived at Mission Possible, she started on the Clean Team collecting litter and needles around Vancouver. When a Business Improvement Area (BIA) route was hiring, her strong work ethic and attention to detail made her the successful candidate. Now, she takes pride in the work she does, recognizing the importance of a clean street for local businesses. In China, she worked as a salesperson and knows that creating a good first impression encourages visitors to stay longer, generating more profit for the entire city.  "We will clean the street and it's very good. You walk on the street and you're happy, and someone who comes to travel is happy too," she shares. 

In addition to housing, Elizabeth also accessed other wraparound supports while at MP. Food security programs like hot lunches and the Community Pantry were very important to her, allowing her to save money and cover the high cost of living in the city. "I'm happy here. They have food here for everybody, like lunches," she shares. Elizabeth also appreciates the hours of tech support she received from MP volunteers who run the Computer Support Drop-In, helping her navigate online forms and set up her new cellphone.

The most useful aspect of the program for Elizabeth though was the support she received in securing an on-call position at Hogan's Alley. From creating a resume and cover letter to writing reference letters to mock interviews, her coach and job support team helped her every step of the way. She shares, "This program is good because it's helping me have a job, and helped me look for another job." Elizabeth feels like her hard work and dedication have been celebrated, and she recognizes that continuing to search for stable employment outside of the program is still important. "Everything's a balance," she shares.

Elizabeth hopes to retire in the near future, but that doesn't mean she will be slowing down. When she has more time to herself, she wants to give back to the community that supported her on her journey. She plans on volunteering frequently, continuing to clean litter and recycling off the streets and help out in local kitchens. If she has some money left over after her bills, she also plans to donate to the causes she believes in. "If everybody does a little bit, we can have a good country," she shares. 

Elizabeth is the face of our Spring Back to Work Campaign, a reminder that with the right support, associates can rise, rebuild, and give back. Her journey from a shelter to meaningful employment and community impact is one of strength, hope, and empowerment. But she’s not alone; more people like Elizabeth are waiting for a chance to access the same support. With demand for our program growing, we’re aiming to raise $10,000 by May 22 to help more associates step into stability and opportunity.

Every donation makes a difference.

Your support today helps someone take their first step tomorrow.