YW Calgary launches campaign to complete crisis shelter build
Posted Jun 2, 2023 12:03 pm.
Last Updated Jun 2, 2023 12:17 pm.
Calgary’s YWCA is launching a new campaign to raise funds to finish building its new Sheriff King crisis shelter home, a safe haven for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
The organization says Calgary police respond to two domestic violence-related calls every hour of every day.
CEO Sue Tomney adds that for every woman who does reach out for help, there are many more who don’t.
“For some, they don’t even see that as an option,” she said. “We know that in partnership with Calgary police, the most important thing is to find a safe place and there are times when there isn’t enough of that safe space.”
The organization has managed to raise most of the $50 million for the new crisis shelter, but still has just over $6 million to go.
It’s asking Calgarians to help build that space for women and children in unsafe situations.
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The “Donate this Much Space” campaign encourages citizens from all walks of life to contribute funds that will directly support the redevelopment of the Sheriff King Home as well as the long-term recovery and healing of its clients.
YW Calgary says every contribution, no matter the size, will help the organization create a safe space where women and their families can “heal, grow, and thrive.”
It adds money raised by the community will go toward completing the trauma-informed space and supporting programs including counselling, children’s programming, and life skills to help those affected move forward.
“YW Sheriff King Home has served as a critical turning point for many women and children in our community for the past 40 years,” said Tomney.
“With Calgarians’ support, we can ensure that the new YW Sheriff King Home can continue to support those most vulnerable with modernized trauma-informed and inclusive space. We are thrilled to invite the community to join us and our campaign team in the final push towards our goal.”
For more information on the Sheriff King Home redevelopment, visit ywcalgary.ca/sheriffking.
Details on the fundraising campaign can be found at donatethismuchspace.ca
