The Women's Centre Grey Bruce will host a fundraiser at the start of next month.
Fund Development Manager Stacey Barry says the centre provides critical services and programming for women and families. There are three main programs, including the first step, which is the emergency shelter, for when women and families are fleeing violent situations. That program is six weeks, and can be followed by other programs offered by the Women's Centre if needed.
"After that, if they need a little more support and they need to move into transitional housing if they're not ready to move on to their own, our next step is second stage housing which is our transitional housing unit. Our third program is geared toward youth, which is our anti-human trafficking youth program," Barry shared.
Barry says the centre opened in 1982, and the programs they offer have been critical since inception, with 126 women and children a year seeking shelter there.
"Our crisis line is also a huge resource for the community. Not everyone needs to come to the emergency shelter and they don't necessarily need lodging, but they do need the support," added Barry.
The crisis line can be reached at 1-519-371-1600 and toll free at 1-800-265-0755.
The upcoming fundraiser on August 1 will be an afternoon tea party at the Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre from 2-4 p.m. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased in-person or online at the Meaford Hall Arts & Cultural Centre box office or by emailing the donations email inbox for the Women's Centre.
"The afternoon tea party is a fun afternoon with a silent auction and 50/50 draw. Anyone can come, men, women, children, it's all ages. Anyone can come enjoy an afternoon tea and hopefully people come wearing their fascinators, as well, and just enjoy the event," said Barry.
The event will be catered by Totally Tea and will include tea with scones, sandwiches, and mini desserts.
More information on the Women's Centre Grey Bruce, including donating or volunteering, can be seen at https://www.thewomenscentre.org/.
