On June 7, 2025, the Vernon British Columbia Stake Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints partnered with the local Mamas for Mamas chapter to host a pop-up market at the Vernon British Columbia Stake Centre. The goal of the market was to support local mothers and caregivers in need.
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After contacting Mamas for Mamas, a charitable organization supporting mothers and caregivers, the stake Relief Society presidency knew they had found the perfect opportunity to make a difference. They gathered women from across the stake for a day of “pop-up” service.
The pop-up market was more than an exchange of goods — it was a celebration of service, unity and Christlike compassion in action. Items were donated by local Relief Society members, allowing those in need to “shop” for necessities for free.
More than 100 women donated items, volunteered their time and supported the event. Hundreds of items — including clothing, shoes, books, toys, games and baby supplies — were sorted and displayed. The community response was overwhelming — more than 200 people attended the market.
Sunney Weir of the Vernon chapter of Mamas for Mamas noted the teamwork and generosity of the Relief Society members. She said, “They have done an incredible job. We were able to support so many families today. … [I appreciated] getting to watch our clients come through the door and leave with tears in their eyes because they got toys, clothing and things for their families. It has been an amazing success.”
Mamas for Mamas is a national charitable organization that supports mothers and caregivers in crisis. Its mission is to transform the landscape of poverty through innovative approaches to financial barriers faced by struggling families. Citizens for Public Justice reported that in 2024, 17 per cent of the population was described as living below the low-income measure. That means 7 million people in Canada live in poverty. Mamas for Mamas is committed to giving a hand up, not just a handout, by providing essential needs to those who are struggling.
Paulette Deyholos, the Vernon British Columbia Stake Relief Society president, said, “We had a fantastic pop-up swap today for Mamas for Mamas. I’m so proud to be part of this amazing team of women. They worked tirelessly all day, preparing everything beautifully for the families in our community. My heart is full with their strength and generosity.”
General Relief Society President Camille N. Johnson has said, “When you consider all of the needs in the world right now — temporal, spiritual, and emotional — it is a little overwhelming, to say the least. Sometimes I ask myself, ‘How can I make a difference?’ ... Each of us can do very small things, like reaching out to a neighbor, listening to someone who needs to talk or doing a small act of service. Any ounce of effort we make to share the Savior’s love with those around us is never done in vain” (Camille N. Johnson, Facebook post, September 7, 2021).