For 16 years Acts of Kindness has been blessing single moms in the community of Langley and Aldergrove, B.C., with a free oil change. This year over 60 single moms and their children came to enjoy the pampering provided for their vehicles and themselves. As their cars were getting an oil change, vacuum, and wash, the mothers were treated to new hairstyles, manicures, eyeglass repairs, health and nutrition consultations, and some yummy food. All the while, their children enjoyed rock climbing, a bouncy castle, crafts, and sports led by the Church in the Valley Kids Zone team.
Over 106 volunteers donated their talent, food, and time to make this day happen. More volunteers than ever came from the local businesses outside the church to support this ministry as it grows. The demonstration of giving freely of their time, their strengths, and abilities, and ultimately sharing Christ, has become such a ripple effect in the community. God definitely has a hand in all that is happening. Ruth 12:12 says, “May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge” (NIV).
It is easy to underestimate how a little generosity and kindness can change a person’s attitude, day, week, or even life. A gesture of a smile can be the difference between someone making uplifting decisions in life or poor ones. Assisting a mom to make sure their vehicle is reliable can be the difference between a mom feeling confident or feeling like a failure. Church in the Valley and Acts of Kindness uses the Single Moms’ Oil Change to support mothers physically and emotionally, so they can change the future of the next generation.
-Submitted by Leah Kwas and Pastor Walter Rogers