YWCA seeks support for women’s shelter

By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman - Lethbridge Herald on October 5, 2023.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com

The YWCA Lethbridge and District is asking for donations to help women and children utilizing the Harbour House emergency women’s shelter and its various programs.
Director of external relations Cat Champagne spoke to the Herald Wednesday and said one of the many ways they help those dealng with domestic violence is by providing them with items they need in their everyday life.
“Every month we put out our top needs for all of our programs, this month we are in need of women seasonal clothing; anything clean and gently used, all sizes, shampoo and conditioner,” said Champagne.
She said they are also looking for coffee makers women can use once they move out of the shelter and into a new home.
“We always need sweaters and hoodies for our Amethyst Project, and for the group of children that are in the shelter, we need toys anywhere from zero to 24 months, baby wipes, new pacifiers and bottles. Any kind of baby supplies are always welcome.”
Champagne said Harbour House is always in need of donations, because unfortunately there are always women fleeing domestic violence.
“Two out of five women in the world will experience domestic violence in their lives. It’s just something that’s very prevalent and I think people don’t realize how frequent it happens and how common it is.”
She said most people know someone within their family, friends, and co-workers who are struggling with domestic violence.
“80 per cent of domestic violence goes unreported, so it could be something that you’re in constant contact with.”
She said even though people are unable to provide direct support through in-person volunteering, they can make donations.
Harbour House partners with local organizations, and until Friday donations made at local Shoppers Drug Mart centres will be given to Harbour House.
“We partnered with Shoppers Drug Mart and Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health. The donations received from this campaign go directly to shelters in your area, so if you’re donating at one of the Lethbridge stores, those funds come directly to us here at the YWCA Lethbridge,” said Champagne.
Donations are accepted Monday through Friday during business hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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