Making a Difference

$1 from every sale of five of our six editions  goes to 1Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre.

For 48 years, 1Up has supported single-parent families across Greater Victoria through free programs, counselling, mentorship, and essentials like groceries and clothing. Their work helps families build connection, confidence, and stability when they need it most.

Why This Is Personal

When my son was in the hospital, I had just lost my job. Two days later, he broke his leg. He would spend two months in a spica cast and eventually have to relearn how to walk.

I was asked if I had the financial means to get us through it. I didn't.

Despite applying for support and even having our MLA advocate for a policy change, I was turned away. Then a hospital social worker handed me a pamphlet for 1Up.

I remember thinking, I have a home. I'm not on the street. Surely someone else needs this more than I do.

But I was wrong.

Too often, we convince ourselves that we have to hit rock bottom before we're allowed to ask for help. The truth is, life can change overnight, and needing support doesn't make us any less capable or deserving.

Just like The Dumpling, support isn't one-size-fits-all. We all go through different seasons of life, and sometimes we need someone in our corner.

That's why 1Up is the first organization we're proud to support. Because everyone deserves a little help when life gets hard.

— Mallory, Founder 💜