NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE AND DISTRICT ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
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The Barrie and District Association of Realtors (BDAR) is excited to launch its second annual virtual fundraiser, A Night of Shelter.
From now until Nov. 25, BDAR will be working to raise money in support of Youth Haven, the Busby Centre, and the Lighthouse.
A safe, warm night of shelter frees people from the heavy burden of feeling unsafe and nowhere to belong. Even one night of shelter provides a person in crisis with the emotional, mental, and physical needs to give them the strength to go to the next stage in health and well-being.
“The average night of shelter in our region costs $30 and our goal is to raise 730 nights for a total of $22,000,” said Luc Woolsey, 2022 BDAR president.
Here are a few stories from those who have benefited from shelter and programs provided by our partnering organizations:
“I came to Youth Haven after struggling with homelessness. Working with the resources that Youth Haven provided I was able to attain housing and maintain this more stable living environment. I’ve also restarted my education through correspondence and am working toward some impressive goals.”
“Without Busby, I would be on the street. They have helped me to get back on my feet at a time when nobody else would. I haven’t been shown this type of kindness in a long time. I will never forget any of them and will remain extremely grateful.”
BDAR has been a longtime contributor to local shelter-based organizations through various initiatives.
“A Night of Shelter came from the need to contribute much-needed funds to help provide housing for all. We know that in the County of Simcoe, at least 722 individuals are experiencing homelessness,” Woolsey says.
As we continue to see a lack of access to safe and affordable housing and resources, the Night of Shelter fundraiser provides a chance to highlight these important issues happening within our communities and to support the long-term programs of local organizations recognized and respected for good works across Simcoe County.
“Last year exceeded our expectations and we are counting on our BDAR Realtors and the community to help make it even bigger this year,” says Woolsey.
Your donations give the gift of a brighter future for those seeking shelter in Simcoe County and support the programs provided by these local agencies.
Donate to A Night of Shelter here.
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