November 2025 Newsletter
Sustainable Growth in Action
A Letter From The Executive Director
Every day at Anawim, we witness the quiet courage of individuals choosing to rewrite their story—stories anchored in hope, resilience, and the collective belonging we create together. Anawim is more than charity; it’s a living community where compassion ignites transformation and dignity is restored through countless moments of kindness and care.
We know the realities of homelessness, poverty, addiction, and intimate partner violence—how these can strip away safety, connection, and self-worth. Yet, inside our homes and programs, we see that none of these challenges define a person. Instead, what truly defines each person is their strength, their potential, and the possibility that blooms when compassion and community surround them.
The transformation we see daily is not abstract. Every shared meal, warm shower, heartfelt conversation, and safe night’s sleep is a new chapter being written—with courage, accountability, and hope as the authors.
None of this is possible without you—the collective heart of Anawim. Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and Board of Directors pour out care, trust, and commitment every day. Because of you, we’ve made meaningful progress this year: refining systems, investing in our homes and people, and intentionally building a stronger foundation for the future.
As I reflect, I am filled with gratitude for how far we have come—and hope for all the stories yet unwritten. Together, we’re proving that, when compassion leads, change is not only possible, it’s inevitable.
With gratitude,
Jeffery Baergen
Executive Director, The Anawim Companions Society
By the Numbers: Chapters of Change
11 residents pursued or completed schooling
12 individuals secured employment
10 “graduated” to independent living this year
4 residents obtained vital identification
2 rebuilt family connections
4 mothers reunited with their children
1 community member celebrates 14 years of sobriety in January
Every number is a chapter rewritten—thanks to your compassion and support.
A Home for Hope: Lisa’s Story
Lisa’s journey with Anawim began long before she walked through the doors of Susan’s Place. As a regular visitor to the main house, she always felt welcomed and seen, but she yearned for a space where women could experience the same belonging and safety. When Susan’s Place finally opened, Lisa knew she had found what she had been looking for—a real, supportive home for women, built on compassion and mutual respect.
“At Susan’s, I learned I was valued, supported, and truly capable,” she shares. “Before, I never believed I deserved to be alive, let alone succeed. Now? I have healthy relationships, I’m in school, and I show up for myself and others every day. Anawim gave me the foundation to build a life filled with self-compassion and hope.”
Lisa’s chapter is still unfolding, but now it’s a story of inner strength, love, and the realization that everyone deserves a second chance.
Volunteer Spotlight: Shauna
Never underestimate the importance of a name. At Anawim, when someone walks through our doors—carrying the weight of loss, instability, or simply exhaustion—the first thing we ask is their name. Because even when hardship has stripped away nearly everything, a name remains. It reminds each person they belong, they matter, and their story is still being written.
Volunteering here is personal for me. Addiction touched my own family growing up, and I know it can change a life in an instant. I’ve learned it’s not a failing of character, but a disease that crosses all boundaries—our neighbours, our friends, even those we least expect. That understanding is what draws me to Anawim: this place is hope in action. Here, each act of kindness—a meal, a smile, a listening ear—is a chance for transformation.
Our Community Drop-In Space is truly a family room. Whether it’s coffee, conversation, or compassion from staff and residents alike, you feel community come alive. Every single day, I am inspired by the courage of those working to reclaim their stories and rebuild their lives.
When I leave at the end of the day, I am grateful—not just for the people I meet, but for the reminder that kindness still changes lives. At Anawim, no act of love is ever wasted, and every name, every smile, every simple gesture becomes the first line in a new chapter.
Every single gift makes an immediate difference—helping a neighbour find safety, a hot meal, and hope for a new chapter.
Become a Monthly Companion
Step deeper into the story! Monthly Companions keep doors open and lives moving forward, all year long. With a steady monthly gift (starting at just $25), you:
Create stability and new beginnings for residents and drop-in guests
Celebrate every milestone—no matter how small
Belong to a caring circle, standing with others rewriting their own stories
As a Companion, you’ll receive honest updates and stories showing the difference your kindness makes. Your membership is flexible—change or pause at any time. There’s always space here for you.
One Gift. Lasting Change.
17,974
nourishing meals served
Drop In Numbers
8,659
unique drop-in visits
1,736
showers
provided
1,441
loads of
laundry
4,560
guests received free clothing
Finding Purpose: Luke’s Story
Before Anawim, Luke’s life was sheltered and uncertain after leaving a treatment facility. While he gained knowledge there, it was at Anawim that he discovered the day-to-day life skills—and the sense of responsibility and trust in himself—that make true independence possible.
“Anawim taught me to face new challenges with confidence and showed me that setbacks aren’t the end of the story,” Luke recalls. Surrounded by a supportive community, he found the courage to pursue dreams he once thought out of reach—including working on boats, a goal that became real with Anawim’s encouragement.
Now, Luke balances school and work, building a life of purpose.
“Without Anawim, my life would look very different—maybe not bad, but certainly not as fulfilling. I’m grateful for the community that keeps me moving forward.”
34th Annual Christmas Tree Sale
Celebrate the season and make a difference! Every tree at the Anawim Christmas Tree Sale is sourced fresh from a trusted Vancouver Island grower—so you’ll take home a beautiful, local tree and support our programs at The Anawim Companions Society.
Rudra’s Story:
Finding Purpose in Every Step
When Rudra first found Anawim two years ago, she wasn’t sure if the mental health field was her calling. Searching for meaning, she started as an art volunteer—longing to make a broader impact and step outside her comfort zone.
What began as quiet Thursday mornings in the art room soon became so much more. “Even on days when no one showed up, I felt my cup fill just being there,” Rudra remembers. The acceptance and kindness she witnessed inspired her to grow and take on new challenges.
Transitioning from volunteer to support worker, Rudra quickly realized how much leadership, courage, and empathy this path required. With encouragement from the Anawim community, she stepped up—learning not only to lead, but also to connect deeply with people facing poverty, addiction, and hardship.
“Witnessing the strength of those in recovery has humbled me,” Rudra shares. “I’m in awe of the resilience and dedication our residents show—every day. I’m also grateful for the relationships I’ve built across our community.”
Today, Rudra feels proud to be part of an organization that’s genuine, essential, and grounded in compassion. Her time at Anawim has opened new chapters—not just for others, but for herself as well.
Your Gift Makes
Transformation Possible
When you give to Anawim, you're creating pathways to genuine change. Your support brings compassion and hope, meets immediate needs, and empowers individuals to make long-term, positive changes in their lives.
Each gift, regardless of size, helps someone move beyond their current circumstances toward a life of dignity, purpose, and self-sufficiency—creating ripple effects that benefit our entire community.
Be part of a different kind of solution.