Make a Difference!
The last 90 days have been a whirlwind of economic news, lifestyle changes, and emotional turmoil for many.
I feel very lucky to work with some amazing people, and I have been inspired and touched by the incredible work being done by so many charities.
At this time of year, most of us are asked to donate to many causes – Heart & Stroke, Cancer, Aphasia Institute, Mackenzie Health Foundation or your local hospital. Many of these charities are not holding their marathons this year due to the pandemic. Yet, research goes on and people are still fighting disease and institutions still need our support.
Many of us have just completed our tax returns and reflected on last year's donations. Often it’s because your friend participated in a marathon and asked you to donate. CanadaHelps has seen an increase in individual donors and donations;
specifically towards front line workers, food banks, and healthcare
. This is amazing, but it’s not the big picture and majority of charities have been hard hit with a decrease in donations.
The need has increased exponentially in certain areas that are most impacted by isolation. One issue that has been hit the hardest is domestic abuse. Every 6 days a woman is killed by her intimate partner in Canada. Since the pandemic started, there has been almost 1 death per day. Domestic violence in York Region is up 30% during the COVID-19 crisis. Many of us think "not in my neighbourhood" but it happens everywhere behind closed doors.
Yellow Brick House welcomes women and children at their most vulnerable time, but during COVID-19 there are increased costs to maintain social distancing, food, health protocols and safety that are approximately $15,000 per week beyond the usual budget!
How can you help?
For me, I want to make a difference where it is so needed in my community and I am donating to Yellow Brick House.
Please join me and contribute to the charity of your choice. Whether it be a financial donation or just basic living supplies, many organization need our help more than ever.
Let’s all ensure that we put an end to the violence. Let’s all ensure that our charities continue to do the great work that makes our communities thrive!
