Mamas for Mamas and Two Small Men Make a Big Difference Moving Canadian Families

One of Two Small Men's stand-out community parters is Mamas for Mamas who, for many years, has been helping to change lives in Vancouver, Kelowna, Calgary, and beyond. The organization offers all-inclusive support for mothers, caregivers and families facing poverty-related struggles.

Because much of the work done by Mamas for Mamas involves moving families into new homes, Two Small Men with Big Hearts proved to be of great assistance. Over the years, the moving company has donated its moving services to the organization, as part of its mission to give back.

“We look for partners who are like‑minded, community‑focused, and genuinely want to make their neighbourhoods better,” says Director of Programs and Services Lindsay Hammond. “That’s what makes Two Small Men such a great fit.”

Hammond has seen first hand how many families in crisis have benefited from this partnership. With the organization for five years now, she started of as a volunteer herself.

“I was part of bringing Two Small Men into Mamas for Mamas,” she says. “They reached out during a campaign to complete 100 moves in 90 days and offered support to our clients. They’ve been super instrumental in helping low‑income moms and dads who simply can’t afford to move.”

In times of instability, a new and fresh home can make a world of difference for the people served by Mamas for Mamas.

“A lot of our clients are fleeing domestic violence,” says Lindsay. “They’re packing up quickly, often in the middle of the night, to protect themselves and their children. Having movers available on short notice is crucial.

“Others are moving from market housing into subsidized units so they can begin saving and building stability, but they often can’t afford to move.”

The organization started in 2014 when founder Shannon Christensen set up a Facebook group in Kelowna to help local moms who were in need of baby gear, food, and other basics. This informal group started on the idea of moms looking out for one another eventually blossomed into a support network for families dealing with a variety of issues. Mamas for Mamas now offers mental health services, crisis support, and even a Karma Market where families can get groceries in a pinch with no judgement.

“We have three physical locations—Kelowna, Calgary, and Vancouver—and about 10 volunteer‑run storage units across the country,” says Lindsay. “We also have an online presence in 52 cities. What started as a Facebook group to help moms trade items like food and strollers has grown into something so much more.”

Following the COVID pandemic, more people needed the services of Mamas for Mamas than ever before. Fortunately, continued donations and increased funding has allowed the group to expand more than ever before.

“The pandemic turned out to be a huge growth period. We were able to apply for COVID‑specific funding, and not only did our donors come back, they came back tenfold. We’ve learned from the rapid expansion. Now, our focus is slow, intentional growth so we can ensure we’re a permanent fixture in any community we serve.”

Even though Mamas for Mamas has grown considerably, Two Small Men is still there for the organization every step of the way.

“They’ve even helped us move our own office spaces. It’s been a great partnership. They’ve been there year‑round, not just for seasonal campaigns. They’ve always made themselves available.”

If you’d like to make a donation or want more information regarding Mamas for Mamas, visit www.mamasformamas.org

To find out more about Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving and the many organizations they have given back to over the years, click here.