A little kindness can go a long way.
That’s the mindset Cambridge’s Leslie Williams is taking this holiday season as she prepares to give away a full Christmas dinner to someone who may otherwise go without.
She’s doing it in honour of her late sister, Jackie, who passed away in 2016.
Jackie loved Christmas and Leslie was looking for a way to give back. It started with Williams creating a Facebook post in one of the local groups letting people know her plan.
The response of people who have shown interest so far has been overwhelming.
“I have a book and every time I get a message on Facebook I write down their name,” Williams said.
“On the 14th I’m going to cut out all the names, fold them, put them in a stocking and have my great niece pick the name.”
Dec. 14 wasn’t selected at random; it’s Jackie’s birthday, bringing even more meaning to doing the good deed.
Jackie's life wasn’t without personal struggles of her own as she battled substance use, but Williams wants people to know that’s not who she was, rather something she wrestled with.
“My sister loved everybody, she was a people person,” Williams said.
“She lived in Toronto the last couple years of her life and knew a lot of people in the homeless community. She always tried to help everybody. I just thought this would be a great gesture for her. She has six kids and eight grandchildren now. Without her being here, I wanted to step in and be there. She was an amazing person.”
Williams, who is on the Ontario Disability Support Program and knows how tough times can be, says donating the dinner will be a family effort as all eight of the grandchildren are also pitching in. Their willingness to help fills Williams with happiness and pride.
“I usually give them $10 each for Christmas,” Williams said as tears rushed to her eyes.
“They’re all donating their $10 to help me do this. It’s a family thing, it’s not just me.”
The recipient will receive all the ingredients for the meal, including a turkey, a ham, potatoes, vegetables, buns and a dessert.
Her giving spirit doesn’t end with the free meal, as Williams has been involved with the 519 Community Collective. Interactions with people there is actually what gave her the idea.
“Just seeing how appreciative everyone is,” she said of why it's important.
“Any little bit helps. Any bit you can give is a great gesture and everyone appreciates just the littlest things.”
As the holidays approach, Williams has a very simple message she hopes people keep in mind.
“Be humble."
