Holding the Money Can

About the Book

Holding the Money Can is the true story of a woman who began life as a homeless child living with her family on the streets of Washington, D. C. during the Depression. The oldest of four children, who had to hold the Money Can as they and their mother begged for money, tells her story. The money can became her symbol of shame. She takes us through the struggle to survive hunger and cold, abuse by her father, and the traumatic separation from her family when she was about six years old. Her memories of the emotional, physical, and sexual abuses she endured in various foster homes are haunting. During her tender years and into her teens, we witness her struggle to rise above her beginnings. There is suspense, happiness, and disappointment, and we learn what motivates her. She marries and becomes a mother, but not just any mother. She is compelled to seek admiration and respect and launches into civic affairs, the PTA, and the Girl Scouts. She puts everyone's needs before her own. Just when she thinks she has finally reached the brass ring, tragedy strikes. Through her loves and betrayals and her joys and sorrows, her courage and indomitable spirit are unfailing, right down to the final, heart-breaking chapter.

The epilogue is intended to inspire others who are experiencing similar abuses and losses.

About the Author

Evelyn Louise Lambert was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, on February 10, 1929. She moved with her parents to Washington, D. C. when she was a young girl. She later moved to Maryland where she received her elementary, junior high, and high school education in the Montgomery County public schools, graduating in 1948. She entered and won several beauty contests, worked briefly as a model, and married that same year. Evelyn worked part time for a photographer and later as a florist. She has been president of the PTA, secretary of her community Civic Association, and a Girl Scout Leader. Her hobbies include bridge, bowling, and tournament Scrabble.