October 20, 2025
When wildfires broke out across eastern Newfoundland and Labrador near St. John’s this summer, Salvation Army St. John’s West Corps Officers Natalia and Brian DeBoer knew they wanted to help. Together with their 14-year-old daughter, Kylynn, they decided to share their gift of music to support those affected.
The family recently brought their musical and vocal talents to The Salvation Army Kenmount Thrift Store in St. John’s, turning an ordinary afternoon into a community concert.
“Over the course of an hour, as they performed traditional Newfoundland songs, donors generously contributed to the wildfire relief fund,” says Kenmount store manager Letty Stone.
“The DeBoers have been working tirelessly to raise support for the fire relief efforts through their gift of music since the devastating fires started,” Letty says. “The music was very well received by our guests—we had a lot of great comments.”
For the DeBoers, the event was more than just fundraising for an important cause.
“I see people who are connecting with our Thrift Store as partners with The Salvation Army,” says Brian. “We wanted to reach out through a window from The Salvation Army into the community.”
This wasn’t the first time the family brought joy to the thrift store through music. Last Christmas, they performed at the Kenmount store, spreading seasonal cheer to guests and staff while raising funds for The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle campaign.
“This valued partnership with the DeBoers showcases the role of our stores as a place of connection and hope,” Letty says.