To the Editor
The generosity of Haliburton County never ceases to amaze me!
The International Women’s Day YWCA HERS Fundraiser hosted by Fleming College March 8 raised $15600 (still coming in). The $7800 donated by our community was doubled by the incredible generosity of the Hays and other anonymous donors. This was unbelievable!
Like our counterparts across the world 80 plus women men college students and children came together to honour the social economic cultural and political achievements of women throughout history.
The theme in 2017 is #BE BOLD FOR CHANGE! It was a perfect evening to increase awareness about and rekindle interest and support for the YWCA HERS (Haliburton Rural SafeSpace) and the much needed supports they provide for women and children in our community. It also acknowledged the ongoing support of our community since the 1990s and the incredible women of vision who worked hard to achieve the goal of creating a women’s shelter. Thank you Zoe Chilco Jude King Cindee St. Pierre Heather Ross Gena Robertson (SIRCH) and the HERS Committee that carried the dream forward to 2003 (too many people to name).
I would be remiss if I did not initially express my sincerest appreciation to the media print and radio for your ongoing support of this very important funding issue. Without all of you the message would never have reached so many.
A huge “shout out” goes out to Fleming College staff and students all of the individuals and businesses who provided poster printing delicious food and a beautiful gift basket draw to thank our attendees.
Some of the highlights of the evening were opening remarks given by Laurie Scott MPP (letter read) Warden Brent Devolin and Reeve Murray Fearrey were extremely supportive of HERS. Lynn Zimmer CEO of Peterborough Haliburton YWCA shared compelling stats regarding the services used in 2016 and also very powerful stories of two women. Heather Ross provided a brief outline of the ongoing journey of Women’s Emergency House and HERS since the 1990’s. Zoe Chilco Sage Christiano and Cassidy Glecoff (sound by Mark Christiano) your contribution pulled the evening together with your uplifting music.
It takes a team to make an event successful and I would like to sincerely thank each volunteer and the YWCA staff and Board for your efforts.
I feel so privileged to live in such a giving and compassionate community.
Bonnie Roe
