Hi, my name is Violetta.
When I first arrived in Winnipeg, I was pregnant, and Thrive was one of the first places I turned to for support. My first class here was Prenatal, and not long after, I was introduced to the basic needs supplies program. As a newcomer with no job and my husband earning a low income, I was so grateful for the support. The food we receive has been such a big help, especially since I couldn’t afford things like the baby cereals and snacks we get here. The support truly makes a difference, and I feel comfortable coming here—it’s nothing like back home, where I would have felt embarrassed.
After Victoria was born, we joined the parenting classes, starting with Nobody’s Perfect and then Positive Discipline. Both classes were amazing, and we always looked forward to coming on Mondays. I learned so much because I had no experience as a mother and felt very alone here in Canada with my husband. I still keep all the books, pamphlets, and brochures from the classes. I will never throw them away. I share everything I learned with my new friends who don’t know about these programs, and I also share it with my husband and family back home in Greece.
I truly appreciate the support and company here. It’s hard being alone and only knowing a few people, but even a smile can change your life. I especially want to mention the Christmas Party. It was such a wonderful experience—great food and great people. We even received a box full of gifts, and my husband was surprised to find that some of them were for him! Victoria also got her first toys, and we took pictures with Santa Claus. Those were her first pictures!
Coming to Thrive has brought positive changes for me. I’m now exploring new places, and all the knowledge I’ve gained here has been invaluable. I can’t thank you enough. I’m so grateful to the entire team at Thrive. I’m sad to not be here, but my heart will always be with you. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart! The friendly support and tools I’ve received here mean the world to me. Places like this are so important in our society.
Thank you once more!
I am sharing all the information I learned through the programs with my new friends who don’t know. I am also sharing all the information as well with my husband and family back home in Greece all the time.
