The Founder's Story
"I experienced both sides of life — from having everything to having nothing.
I was born and bred in Zimbabwe, nurtured by honest working-class parents who provided adequate shelter until the sudden death of my father. As an innocent young girl, I had no clue how devastating and challenging my new life would become.
Our family house was auctioned off to repay money borrowed for my late father's medical bills. We officially became homeless within six months of his passing. My mother did her utmost best to keep her kids together — but it was impossible.
Gaudencia Chiko
Co-Founder, Joyful Tears Canadian Relief