For over three decades, My Friend's House, a women and children crisis shelter in the Georgian Triangle area, has been providing crucial assistance to our community.
The organization offers a safe space, warm beds, meals and basic necessities to women and children in need. They also provide counselling, legal assistance, and wellness programs to address personal battles such as mental health and addiction.
To fund the majority of their services while raising awareness, My Friend's House organizes a variety of community events. One notable event is the Red Shoe Event, scheduled for Sept. 23 this year.
Participants are encouraged to wear red heels, symbolizing the hardships women endure and experience, to a mild degree, the discomfort and pain associated with walking in uncomfortable shoes.
The goal of this year’s Red Shoe Event is to raise $135,000 for the shelter.
The organization is actively seeking volunteers, teams and local sponsors to achieve this goal.
Jane Truemner, the Senior Development Manager of My Friend's House, emphasizes to CollingwoodToday the organization's commitment to raising awareness through local events and collaborations.
In a recent interview, Truemner highlighted the significant increase in abuse cases during the COVID-19 pandemic and the high demand for support. She mentioned a 40% jump in abuse cases, attributing it to financial and mental health struggles faced by many during that time.
Given the rise in demand for their services, My Friend's House requires funding, volunteers and support from the community. Truemner stressed the importance of fundraising efforts, as current funding covers only 50% of the organization's needs.
"Funding is crucial," Truemner emphasized. "The help from fundraisers, community events, businesses, organizations and individual supporters is what keeps our doors open."
Truemner expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and highlighted the importance of opportunities to share their message.
“This organization continues to provide a safe space for women and families experiencing trauma and violence because of the community support we receive,” said Truemner.
My Friend's House continues to serve as a beacon of hope for women and children seeking safety and support in the face of gender-based abuse and violence.
With the community's continued support, the organization can expand its reach and make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by such hardships in the area.
If you wish to learn more about My Friend’s House and how you can support the organization, please visit their website.
The crisis line is available 24/7 for all. Please contact 705-444-2511 to access this service.
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