Every December, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are encouraged to “Light the World” with acts of kindness by helping others whenever they can.
Little did Erica Brown, member of the Thornlie Ward (congregation) in Western Australia, know she would have an opportunity to step up and help a neighbour family meet their vital needs this Christmas season.
On December 7, her neighbour’s house was destroyed by fire while the family was picking up their children from school. Many neighbours rushed in to assist by directing traffic and hosing down fences and grass to stop the fire from spreading.
“I just did what my mother always taught me,” Erica said. “If you can help someone, then get in and do it.”
She organised a GOFUNDME page to assist her neighbours with their immediate expenses and clothing needs. Friends from the Church as well as complete strangers donated cash and goods as a way to express their support for the destitute family.
Erica was overwhelmed with offers of help. Some of Erica’s friends provided cooked meals and Christmas presents for the family's three young children. Other members of the community offered furniture and new linens. Still others are volunteering their time and skills to help the family get settled into a rental property by the end of the year.
Erica has been amazed at people’s generosity and their willingness to give despite the difficult economic circumstances experienced by everyone throughout the year.
She said, “We really have an amazing community and it’s been wonderful to see everybody spreading kindness and compassion in our neighbourhood.”