Family Legacy Inspires Holiday Giving at Energy Court Encampment

For nearly four decades, Kim Shawana has dedicated herself to helping those in need during the holiday season. This commitment stems from a family tradition of generosity that spans generations. “My mom always wanted to feed everybody,” Kim shared. “My grandmother too.” While the family often gives back in their own ways due to geographical distances, a recent encounter at the Energy Court encampment brought them together for a shared purpose.

A Heartfelt Reunion

Kim arrived at the encampment expecting to volunteer, only to find her sisters and nieces waiting for her. The unexpected reunion filled her with emotion. “I got so emotional today,” she said, fighting back tears. “I didn’t expect them to be here.” Her niece, Joni Shawana, highlighted Kim’s commitment to helping others despite her own limited means. Joni noted that Kim frequently uses her own food hamper to assist those in need. “When she got her hamper, which was for her to feed her family, she got all excited and said, ‘oh good, I can make this for those at tent city,’” Joni recalled.

Even when cooking for community events like Powwows, Kim ensures that leftovers are distributed to those who might not have a holiday meal. “Just to know the kindness of my aunty’s heart,” Joni remarked. “To give like that for people who can’t be home for Christmas.”

Building Community Support

Kim’s selfless actions have inspired a wave of community support. A men’s hockey team from Wiikwemikoong, fresh from a tournament victory in Ottawa, used their winnings to purchase turkeys for members in Sudbury. Upon learning of Kim’s plans to help those at the Energy Court, they generously offered her additional turkeys. “They deserve,” Kim insisted, emphasizing the humanity of those living in the encampment. “They are people too.”

Determined to ensure her family’s legacy of generosity continues, Kim is actively instilling these values in her grandchildren. “I’m teaching my grandchildren to do the same thing,” she stated proudly. This commitment to giving back not only honors her family’s history but also paves the way for future generations to carry on the tradition.

Kim Shawana’s efforts, coupled with the support of her community, exemplify the powerful impact of compassion and generosity during the holiday season.