Matt Fulford and four of his friends decided to give back to those less fortunate in Downtown Kelowna. His simple gesture on the weekend started with a gift card and a conversation. 

“Me and a couple of friends went downtown to spread some Christmas spirit to those in need, and it was awesome. We got to meet them and have connections with them, interact with them and bring them gifts of joy,” explains the 18 year old. 

They started with 10 Tim Hortons gift cards to break the ice, and then asked what the recipients would like to receive for Christmas. 

“As soon as they would tell me what they wanted, I would forward that to a friend… they were at the mall, and then they would pick it up. Then we would meet up ... and we wrapped them and all came out to give them out,” says Fulford. 

Mitchell Paul, the busker who plays outside the downtown Starbucks was one of the lucky people to receive a gift, something he wasn’t expecting. 

“I just requested something simple like guitar strings, and it was just a matter of minutes and the guitar strings were here and it was a pleasant surprise,” says Paul. 

Fulford spent $600 to give to those who may not receive a gift this season, something he doesn’t regret. 

“It was awesome, just seeing their facial expressions and tears of joy. I wouldn’t change it for anything. It was really impactful for me just to know that I can make a difference and change someone’s life."

Fulford says Christmas is the time of giving and that everybody deserves to open a gift this Christmas, no matter what it is or who they are.

“I just think everybody should have something, even if you go to the store and pay for the person behind you. You don’t know what they’re going through, and it could mean the world to them,” says Fulford. 

Aidan Fedderson, the videographer, says it was an honour to be part of the good deed, adding Fulford is an inspiration to him.

“I definitely think you can help out at any time of your life… anyone can do it, and it’s very accessible. So definitely go out there a do it,” says Fedderson. 

Fulford wants to spread the message of how easy it is to help. He says it took him one day to make some people’s day – not only by gifting them presents, but creating genuine connections.

To watch the full video, click here.