Violet ‘Zoie’ Gardner (1918-1998), awarded the Order of Canada in 1998, supported and cared for homeless children and youth for 60 years in Edmonton. Born in England, she moved at age one with her parents to northern Alberta, and later to Edmonton.
Eldest of 11 children, Zoie Gardner left school after Grade 8 to work. At age 20, she began to help her mother care for physically challenged children at home. As a dressmaker, over time she supported herself and hundreds of physically and mentally challenged and hard-to-place children and youth. She had a tremendous capacity for love and compassionate care.
At one point there were 24 children under her roof. Some stayed a few days, while others more than 20 years; the average stay was ten years. In later years, community organizations made financial contributions toward Gardner’s homes for children.
Gardner loved growing orchids, and listening to classical music and opera. She, and her large household, volunteered with the Edmonton Opera Society; by baking and serving goodies, her children were introduced to opera and singers including Harry Belafonte, and were normalized into society.
Many of the children she has nurtured in her own home have been strengthened by her care and compassion. By providing a home filled with love and emotional encouragement, she has enabled the children to become productive members of the community and to be self-sufficient as adults.
– Governor General of Canada, Order of Canada
Order of Canada installed May 16, 1998
Edmonton: Physically/Mentally Challenged Youth