Generations of generosity: Family legacy drives holiday giving at encampment

Generations of generosity led Kim Shawana to a holiday surprise. Expecting to volunteer alone at a Sudbury encampment, she found her sisters and nieces waiting.

For nearly four decades, Kim Shawana has supported those with less during the holidays, a practice she describes as less a choice and more the result of generations of teachings.

“My mom always wanted to feed everybody,” Kim said.

“My grandmother too.”

Kim and her family honour that generous spirit in their own ways, though living apart has often meant giving back separately. That changed unexpectedly when she arrived at the Energy Court encampment, expecting only volunteers, and instead found her sisters and nieces waiting.

Emotional surprise and humble heart

The reunion moved Kim deeply, underscoring the familial bond behind their actions.

“I got so emotional today,” she said, holding back tears.

“I didn’t expect them to be here.”

Her niece, Joni Shawana, revealed the depth of Kim’s commitment, noting her aunt has minimal means yet uses her own food hamper to help others.

“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 added that even when cooking for Powwows, Kim ensures leftovers go to those in need.

“Just to know the-the kindness of my aunty’s heart,” Joni said.

“To give like that for people who can’t be home for Christmas.”

Community support amplifies efforts

Kim’s generosity sparked a chain of community support. A men’s hockey team from Wiikwemikoong, having won a tournament in Ottawa, used their winnings to buy turkeys for band members in Sudbury. When Kim went to collect one and shared her plans, they gave her extra.

Her motivation remains rooted in a fundamental respect for those she helps.

“They deserve,” Kim says of those living at Energy Court this Christmas.

“They’re people too. They are people.”

Teaching the next generation

Determined to see this legacy endure, Kim is actively passing on the family’s values.

“I’m teaching my grandchildren to do the same thing,” she says proudly.

It is her way of ensuring the generations of generosity in her family continue for generations to come.