Revelstoke native Nicole Defeo built care packages to give to those who face mental health challenges, spreading awareness throughout the community.
Defeo said providing these packages helps mitigate her own mental health battles. From homemade bracelets and hats, to books and blankets, Defoe said the majority of what’s included in the packages are either bought on her own dime, or handmade on her own time. There are items that have been donated from the locals in the community as well.
“I had a lady hand make 20 pencil cases … one lady donated fidget spinners,” she said. “There’s no limit to what I accept.”
Defeo added that the list is endless with the kinds of goodies she decides to include. Chocolate bars, chips, hard candies, socks, lip balm, female products, stuffed animals and handmade keychains only scrapes the surface of how many items someone could receive.
Among all of the items, she emphasized her shoulder to lean on by proving her contact information inside, in case anyone needs a friend.
“I was judged for when I spoke about it (mental health) and I’m not ashamed of it,” Defeo said. “I’m here, you can call me, you can text me.”
The packages are prepared all year long and are planned to be given out during the holiday season. There were 20 packages last year, and Defeo said 30 people are already in line to receive packages this year.
Defoe said the main reason behind this act of service is to make people struggling feel seen and heard. “Making these packages would bring awareness that people aren’t alone … because you can’t always see mental health, so like if you don’t see it, it’s like nobody has a disability.”
A challenge she mentioned with creating and handing out these packages free of charge is trusting the integrity of those interested in picking one up. “I have found that some people, they want to get free stuff. I want to give to people who are in need and who don’t necessarily have much, and that this (package) can go towards that and make their day.”
Overall, Defeo is excited to build these mental health care packages and hand them out. “I love helping people. For the most part, it takes a lot of time and effort. My world just becomes brighter when I know I could help somebody, and hopefully they know they are not alone.”
Defeo concluded that she calls this act of service a hobby.
“I just call it a hobby, that’s what I love.”
