The YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce announced Thursday it received a record-breaking donation of $25,300 from 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce.
The contribution is the largest to date from the philanthropic community group and will be allocated to the assistance of Apartment Start-Up Fund, a crucial initiative aimed at supporting the transition from homelessness to housed.
"We are incredibly grateful to 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce for their generous donation," said Matt Shute, YMCA Director of Community Initiatives and Employment Services. “This funding will make a substantial difference in the lives of many individuals and families in our communities. We have members of our community living on less than $750.00 per month and a room rental can easily cost twice that amount. People should not be forced to choose between food, shelter, or shoes!"
According to the YMCA, the Stepping Stone to Home Apartment Start-Up Fund is designed to assist individuals and families transitioning from homelessness to secure housing by providing one-time financial support to acquire essential items for their new apartments, such as pots and pans, utensils, bedding, and other basic household necessities.
The organization says the need for this level of support is more urgent than ever, as over 250 individuals in the Grey-Bruce area are currently without stable housing.
The 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce is an organization that brings together women from the area who are passionate about supporting local causes, by combining their resources to make significant contributions to initiatives that are critical to overall community well-being.