With the pandemic there has been a significant increase in the need for supportive environments, like Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey, for victims of domestic abuse. Conversely, meeting pandemic protocols means fundraising opportunities for the underfunded non-profit have been challenging, potentially threatening Women’s House’s ability to continue to provide these essential programs and services that are crucial to the health of our community. “We look forward to the day when the services of the Women's House Serving Bruce & Grey are no longer required,” said John Peevers, Director of Community, Media Relations & Economic Development at Bruce Power. “Unfortunately, they are needed now more than ever and we are proud to support them and the tremendous work they do.” John Peevers also announced that, in addition to the $16,000 donated earlier this year- part of a four-year sponsorship commitment, totaling $61,000 - they will be donating an additional $20,000 to Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey, in an effort to help offset fundraising underperformances.

Fundraising has been different this year for Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey, as they pivoted and created on-line and virtual events, and the community has really been supportive of their efforts. Funds raised are used to fund their budget shortfall – which is the difference between what the government funds Women’s House to carry out their programs and services and what the actual expenses are to run them. This year that shortfall, and the amount needed to fundraise is $140,746. “We couldn’t be more grateful for the generosity of the individuals and corporations in our community, because without them we would not meet our expenses and would have to reduce vital programs and services, potentially turning away those that rely on us to help them to rebuild their lives” stated Lisa Owen, Executive Director of Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey. But, thankfully, because of corporations like Bruce Power, who know that community means everything, Women’s House is one step closer to meeting that shortfall.

Bruce Power is a leader in our community, not only as a corporation in the power sector, but also in being community minded and a great supporter of those in need. Not only have they been there as sponsors of Women’s House for years, last year announcing a four-year commitment to Women’s House, they have also provide prizes and silent or live auction items annually, helping to augment fundraising efforts, and they are the driving force behind the success of the annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event, which unfortunately saw less success this year as a virtual event. “Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey is very thankful for the partnership and support that Bruce Power continually provides to us. They recognize the difficulties we’ve had with fundraising this year, understanding how that can impact the services that we’re able to provide to the women and children who need it most, and they stepped up again to help us in our time of need.”, stated Michelle Lamont, Fundraising and Community Development Coordinator for Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey. And, in addition to everything else, this year they are also participating in Women’s House’s annual Christmas Hamper project*, providing 50 grocery gift cards for $50 each, as well as toys, as part of their employee supported Toy Drive, and some of their employees are even “adopting a family”* to help make Christmas Day brighter for many who are in need in our community.

If you are interested in supporting Women’s House’s fundraising efforts, please contact Michelle at [email protected].

If you would like to support the Women’s House Christmas Hamper Project or a “adopt a family” for Christmas gift giving (deadline for donations December 9th), please contact Julie at [email protected] or by phone at 519-396-9814 ext. 226

source: media release, Women's House Serving Bruce & Grey