CBO’s Collingwood office initiated a ‘charity’ chocolate bar and chips station, strategically placed close to the coffee pot in the kitchen. For a dollar or two, employees satisfied their 3:00 o’clock craving while supporting a worthy cause. We snacked a lot, and in the process raised significant funds to donate to local charities.
One local non-profit that benefitted was the Fill a Purse for a Sister Campaign, an Ontario based initiative that provides purses filled with personal necessities to women’s shelters, social service agencies and crisis centres. The cause recognizes that many women who live in precarious housing situations flee their previous circumstances with nothing in hand, not even their purse. By providing stocked purses to these women, the campaign looks to restore feelings of dignity and security that this simple, yet essential, item can provide.
The generosity of Collingwood staff allowed the team to contribute seven purses, stuffed to the brim with useful items. The purses were delivered to My Friend’s House, a safe haven for women and their children escaping domestic violence. My Friend’s House is a non-profit agency offering support for abused women and children living in the Georgian Triangle. Since opening in 1991, My Friend’s House has helped thousands of women get the safety and support they need to rebuild their lives. After a drop-off evening at the Cheese Factory in Thornbury, 174 purses were gathered and filled with love by groups and individuals. The goal was 100 purses – we crushed it! Thank you to everyone who contributed to show that we care.