Bridget Williams

Photography contributed

Author, community advocate, and stage four cancer survivor Bridget Williams always knew she wanted to help people. So, when she had the chance to help those devastated by the financial effects of COVID-19 she was more than happy to do it. Recently, through her business Adjusting Your Lifestyle she organized an event titled, It Takes a Village Backpack Drive. “We are here for a purpose and that purpose for me, is to help others – the less fortunate,” she says. Williams, who has written numerous books about bettering one’s finances and has worked with various non-profit organizations, saw how children and teens were affected by the financial impacts of COVID. “I work for the school board and I see kids coming in without food and school supplies.” It Takes a Village Backpack Drive collected school supplies and backpacks in Nova Scotia and Toronto to help marginalized students. Executed with the help of volunteers from different walks of life including counselors, students, executive directors, and so on, the drive helped over 280 students across the province and over 40 schools throughout Nova Scotia and Toronto. “People appreciate what you do but this wasn’t about me. It was about helping the children because sometimes they get left out.” The drive was successful as it provided supplies to numerous students but Williams believes the impact was far more reaching and that such events are important for communities. “They show community outreach and a sense of caring.” Williams says she is currently working on more events but she won’t say what they are just yet. One thing is for sure: She doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. “You just don’t know what’s coming. There are always surprises.” And even though times may seem grim right now amidst a pandemic and widespread racial tension, Williams says she turns to her faith and above all else tries her best not to be consumed by these things. “The thing is, we can’t hide our talents and our abilities,” she says, adding that we should use them to create a better world for ourselves and others.