SYDNEY, N.S. -- Sydney, N.S., native Rosemarie Woods knows tough times, and now that she’s back on her financial feet she’s paying it forward.

Woods was one of nearly 600 ServiCom employees who abruptly lost their job when the Sydney call centre closed in December of 2018.

The job loss came at an especially difficult time for Woods, who was already dealing with several family tragedies that year.

“During that year, I had lost my brother to cancer, and then my mother died in grief five months later, and then of course my job died,” says Woods.

She says she didn’t receive a pay cheque for nine weeks, and recalls it being one of the lowest points of her life.

“It was winter, I had no oil, I had no food,” recalls Woods. “My landlord said at first, ‘I’ll give you until December 15,’ and then I was in tears. Then he said if I use the security money I can delay it, so I was almost homeless.”

Like many Canadians who find themselves in difficult situations, Woods turned to the Salvation Army for help.

She says they fed her, gave her money for oil, and restored hope she would make it through the difficult time.

Thankfully, Woods has found employment and her life has taken a turn for the better.

Now she’s paying it forward, and sharing a gift from the heart with those who really need it.

On Tuesday, Woods was all smiles as she dropped off a cheque for $10,000 to Maj. Corey Vincent at the Salvation Army.

“This is the first time in my ministry where we have helped an individual and actually have the privilege of seeing this person give back,” says Vincent. 

Vincent says the kindhearted gift couldn’t have come at a better time, as there is record demand for Salvation Army help, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This will be the year that will be remembered forever. The need has increased here in Sydney by 25 per cent alone,” says Vincent. 

Not only did Woods put her money where her mouth is, she’s passing on some inspirational life to those who are going through tough times.

“To all the boys and girls and adults who are struggling, not eating right now, not being able to pay your cellphone or heat or your house, I understand. I’ve been there and it’s not fun. Just have hope, faith and love,” says Woods.

It's a message and money that Woods says she will continue to deliver each year, as a way to give back to the organization that lifted her spirits when she need it most.