Back on her feet financially, Mrs Purcell this month began delivering gifts to those who had helped. But for Ms Sekona, she wanted to do more.
Come out to dinner, she asked. She couldn't, said Ms Sekona. She didn't own a car.
So the friend once given shelter decided to pay it forward. She bought the $4000 Toyota Passo.
"I don't forget. I always remember those who helped me in my time of need and something just stirred in my heart ... I was crying through the whole process."
The act of generosity has changed the family's life. Previously, she and Cherlese had to walk to pick up Caroline from daycare, making the 10-minute journey home at 6pm, when it was dark, sometimes raining.
Watching her kids' reactions to the views from the car window was beautiful, she said. "I don't know how to put it into words."