As we step into autumn and toward Women Abuse Prevention Month in November, consider supporting Halton Women’s Place, an organization that makes a difference in the lives of abused women and children.
Carm Bozzo, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement reminds us, “Intimate partner violence has been declared an epidemic in our communities and although Halton is a more affluent region and one of the best places to live in Canada, there are many women living in fear because of physical, financial, sexual, and emotional abuse. It’s important we as a community let these women know that we support them in leaving that abusive relationship.”
Whitney Hammond’s Story
Thirty-two years ago, Whitney Hammond made the brave decision to leave an abusive relationship and seek shelter with her two young daughters at Halton Women’s Place. Counsellors supported Whitney on her path, including guiding her through the court process to ensure she gained full custody of her daughters.
Whitney never forgot the care and compassion she received. She says, “I swore when I was in there that I had a moment of clarity and just vowed that I would help other people. Usually when you’re in an abusive relationship the abuser financially straps you or takes you away from your family. Women are often held hostage financially.”
Today, Whitney owns a financial management company in Burlington and is a very wealthy woman in the male-dominated financial services industry. Making good on her promise to give back, Whitney created “From Wallet to Wealth” a non-profit dedicated to supporting Halton Women’s Place.
Shine Bright Gala
The Shine Bright Gala is one of Whitney’s signature fundraising events. It includes an elegant dinner, auction, music, and inspirational speakers. Whitney says, “We have gala speakers who have discovered advantages in their adversity. We also have monthly events to educate and inspire, leading women to live better lives.”
Collette Martin is one of the featured speakers at this year’s Shine Bright Gala. Collette was the catalyst for the passage of the Right to Ask Law in New Brunswick, which gives police forces the legal authority to tell an individual that their partner has a history of inflicting intimate partner violence. Collette was stabbed 37 times by a former boyfriend who broke into her home. She had no idea he had a criminal record for similar offenses. Whitney Hammond would like to see a Right to Ask Law in all provinces.
Over the past 6 years From Wallet to Wealth has raised about $500,000 for Halton Women’s Place. This year alone, Whitney has raised $186,000 with a goal of $250,000. Carm Bozzo says, “We are incredibly grateful to Whitney Hammond and all she has done though From Wallet to Wealth for her ongoing support of Halton Women’s Place. Her commitment is demonstrated not only through the Shine Bright Gala but also through her monthly events that raise awareness and funds for our mission.”
The Shine Bright Gala will be held on Friday, November 15th at the Oakville Conference Centre.
Shine Bright Gala tickets are $175 and $250 for VIP. To purchase tickets or make a donation go online here.
Royal LePage Night Light Walk for Shelter
On the evening of Thursday, October 24th join members of the community for the 2nd annual Royal LePage Shelter Foundation’s Night Light Walk, a lantern-lit stroll through downtown Burlington to raise funds and awareness about domestic violence. Carm says, “It’s a great opportunity for families to gather and walk together in downtown Burlington. Students who volunteer will receive volunteer hours. It’s another opportunity to show their support if they can’t come to the “Hope in Every Step” Walk on November 2nd.
Participants will hear inspiring stories, shine a light on the issues of domestic abuse, and raise crucial fund to Halton Women’s Place transitional housing units for women taking their first steps away from violence.
The Night Light Walk begins at 7pm at Burlington Civic Square at 426 Brant Street.
For more details, please click this link.
“Hope in Every Step”
On November 2, Halton Women’s Place will kick off Women Abuse Prevention Month with their signature fundraising event, “Hope in Every Step.”
In addition to raising funds, the event is also about coming together as a community to take a literal and symbolic step toward ending abuse. Carm says, “The funds raised go directly to support our vital services. If we don’t have a shelter bed available, we do have counsellors who work 24/7 to ensure that every woman who reaches out has resources to connect with and a place to go. We are so grateful for the support from our community because we can’t do this alone.” Supporters are a part of the solution, amplifying the voices of survivors, and working towards a society free from violence. The “Hope in Every Step” Walk is on Saturday, November 2nd. The events begin at 11am at Burlington City Hall.
Lace up your most comfortable shoes and join the “Hope in Every Step” Walk to take meaningful steps towards ending violence against women. For more information or to donate visit them here.
Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday, December 2nd happens right after the shopping frenzies of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Carm says, “It’s a day where people come together to make a positive impact and Halton Women’s Place is a perfect cause to support, as we rely on community generosity to continue providing our life-changing services.”
Halton Women’s Place also has a Holiday Campaign to support women who are staying in the shelters.
Path to a brighter future
As Women Abuse Prevention Month approaches, fundraising events shine a light on the crucial services Halton Women’s Place provides, and a path to a brighter future for women and children in need.
Every step taken and every dollar raised brings us closer to a world free of violence, reminding us that awareness is just as powerful as action in the journey toward domestic violence prevention and support
If you need to seek the help of Halton Women’s Place, call the 24-hour crisis lines at (905) 332-7892 or (905) 878-8555 or Chat Online.