J.’s mom had a baby this year, making J. the oldest of four siblings in a year when her family was homeless for a time.

J. carries a lot of responsibility, and is a bit of a “momma bear” to her younger siblings – she helps take care of them at home and looks out for them at school and in our after-school program.

But, when J. comes to Girls Night and Pre-Teen Night, she gets to set aside that responsibility, hang out with her friends, and just be a kid. It’s so great to see the change in her demeanor when she comes to our evening programs. She has a smile on her face and is carefree.

Without our evening programs, J. wouldn’t get that same opportunity to just be with her peers and have time away from her siblings and responsibilities, and we’re so glad she’s able to find that space at the Surrey Boys and Girls Club.”