Single Mother from White Bear First Nation Wins $1,500 Shopping Spree

A single mother from the White Bear First Nation, Star Maxie, has won a $1,500 shopping experience aimed at supporting single First Nations mothers. The announcement of her win brought her a sense of relief during a challenging time, as she faced the upcoming fifth anniversary of her baby son’s death. “I appreciate it so much; it came at a time when I was pretty worried about the upcoming month and then just the relief of knowing that things are going to be okay,” Maxie shared.

The Newo-Yotina Friendship Centre in Regina, Canada, initiated the monthly contest called “Mama Bear Made it Happen” to recognize and uplift single mothers who work hard to provide for their families. With 580 nominations from community members, the center aimed to celebrate those who juggle multiple responsibilities while ensuring their children have what they need.

Maxie was nominated by her 19-year-old daughter, Twyla Maxie, who expressed deep admiration for her mother’s resilience. Twyla, who aspires to become a paramedic and firefighter, said, “I love my mom and we’ve been through a lot. Growing up raising me as a single mom, she deserves the world.”

The emotional weight of their past is significant. Both mother and daughter faced homelessness and the tragic loss of family members during the pandemic. Twyla described the moment of hearing about her mother’s nomination as emotional, and their tears of joy upon learning of Star’s win were shared.

The contest aims to provide more than just financial relief. According to Taylor Apperley, an intensive case coordinator and program coordinator at the Newo-Yotina Friendship Centre, the initiative seeks to support women who often do not ask for help. “There’s no harder job than being a mom,” Apperley stated. She noted that when she called Star to inform her of the win, the excitement in Maxie’s voice was palpable, making the moment particularly special.

Alongside the shopping experience, winners also receive a self-care treatment, such as a manicure or massage. Maxie views this opportunity as a once-in-a-lifetime blessing and plans to use a portion of her winnings to purchase a headstone for her son. “For them to be running a contest like this, it’s pretty huge, and there are quite a bit of well-deserving women out there I can think of,” she remarked.

With her prize, Maxie intends to purchase groceries, clothing, and household items, along with a hand mixer and electric kettle. She is excited about shopping with Twyla and looks forward to nominating another deserving mother in the future, hoping to give back to the community that has supported her.