Employment Services: Putting The Last Piece In The Puzzle 

Imagine living in a world where even the simplest question, ‘What do you do for a living?’ feels impossible to answer. At Ray of Hope, we’re working to change that through our Employment Services Program, where dignity, confidence, and independence are rebuilt, one job at a time. 

For many, finding a job is more than just earning a paycheck. It’s about rebuilding confidence and reclaiming identity. Josh Healey, Ray of Hope’s Employment Services Manager, knows this well. “Employment is the last piece of the puzzle for someone trying to move out of poverty,” Josh explains. 

Take Charlie*, for example. Years of addiction and a criminal record had left him unemployed and losing hope. Potential employers were hesitant because of his past involvement with the justice system. But at Ray of Hope, Charlie found the tools to overcome these barriers. 

“We focused on what Charlie was good at and what he enjoyed”, Josh shares. Charlie had previous experience operating forklifts and a passion for hands-on work. Through job coaching, career advice, and support, he learned how to approach interviews with honesty about his background while highlighting his strengths. Within a week, Charlie landed three interviews. Today, he’s thriving in a job he loves and has been successfully employed for four months. His new employer is so impressed with his performance that they’ve partnered with Ray of Hope to hire more participants from the program. 

Ray of Hope’s Employment Services provides this vital support through two programs: 

• Youth Employment (ages 15–30): A four-week classroom program followed by a 15-week work placement, often starting internally before transitioning to external roles. 

• Employment Support: Tailored for individuals facing challenges such as mental health concerns, addictions, or disabilities, this six-week program offers coaching, career advice, and structured preparation for employment. 

These programs do more than help people find jobs. They restore dignity, purpose, and hope. Charlie’s story is just one example of how meaningful employment can transform lives. With steady income and renewed confidence, participants like Charlie are stepping out of poverty and into a brighter future. Ray of Hope continues to open these doors, one opportunity at a time. 

For more information about Employment Services, to participate in the program or to become an employment partner, contact Josh Healey at jhealey@rayofhope.net. 

*Name changed.

An Answer to Prayer 

Do you ever notice how when one thing breaks at home, something else seems to go too? Well, it’s not just you. Right before New Year’s, BOTH our Community Centre’s walk-in fridge and freezer decided to take a holiday. Feeding 300–400 people a day from our industrial kitchen, these are mission-critical. We were staring down a $50,000 replacement cost—a daunting number. 

Here is where something amazing happened.  

A generous meal team leader took it upon themselves to reach out to a connection at Wallenstein Feed & Supply Ltd. They didn’t just make a request; they offered a solution: “I’ll put in $25,000 if you’ll match it.” 

The response? A quick and resounding yes. 

By Friday morning, the entire $50,000 was raised, and both the fridge and freezer were paid in full. 

Thanks to this incredible act of generosity, our kitchen will soon be fully operational again, ensuring that every meal we serve is prepared safely and stored properly. 

We are overwhelmed with gratitude for these donors who stepped up so quickly—and with so much heart. You’ve not only solved a critical need but inspired us all with your generosity.

Generosity doesn’t just fix things – it fuels hope. 

Thank you to our Meal Team Leader. And thank you, Wallenstein Feed & Supply Ltd. Together, you’ve made Winter 2025 just a little colder—in the best way possible.