Meet Christine Liverance

As a recreational therapist, Christine Liverance regularly sees the tremendous impact Gifts of Light has on CAMH patients.

Last fall, Christine was able to secure funding through Gifts of Light to implement a new sewing group program to help people on their recovery journey. The group works with Workman Arts, a multidisciplinary arts organization that promotes a greater understanding of mental health through creation and presentation.

“The funding allowed us to purchase a sewing machine, fabric, and sewing/embroidery kit that we would not have been able to get otherwise,” says Christine. “We started this new group where patients could fix clothing of sentimental value while learning new skills from Workman Arts facilitators. Patients also made practical things such as custom laundry bags, pillowcases, and holiday ornaments that were safe for the unit Christmas tree. This gave them a sense of skills mastery and accomplishment when they fixed something in a creative expression group where they designed things they could make.”

Christine and her colleagues have witnessed how COVID-19 has transformed patients’ daily routine. With visits from family members unable to take place due to physical distancing and public health guidelines, they needed another way to connect with loved ones. Thanks to the support of donors like you, Gifts of Light was able to provide tablets so patients can stay connected with their loved ones and care team.

The tablets also allow for patients to participate in virtual programming, like online yoga classes.

“While it took some time to get used to virtual programming, patients are so happy to keep the connection with the volunteers who they’ve built relationships with. The relationship patients develop with Gifts of Light volunteers is so special. Since the conversations are not clinically or medically based, these interactions allow patients to build a friendship and open dialogue.”

Christine looks forward to the holiday season each year, thanks to Gifts of Light.

“One of the best parts about being a recreational therapist is wrapping all of the presents for patients. We get to take the time to match the right gifts with the right people,” says Christine.

“Seeing them open their gifts on Christmas Eve is always very special. They’re so thrilled with the gifts that they receive and it really makes the holidays come together.”